JULY-31

Spaniards leave Stebo

The two Spanish players who featured in the Reds friendly against Hucknall Town last Saturday have returned to Spain!! 

Both Piotrek Urban and Pedro Ballesteros, were offered the opportunity of staying for another week and featuring in the games against Ammanford Town and Newport County but they both decided to return home!

www.llanelliafc.org

JULY-31

Swans win 2-0 in Holland

JOHN ALOISI has emerged as a striker target for Swansea City as they eye potential replacements for the departed Lee Trundle.

The Swans have vowed to use the £1m they will receive following the Trundle sale to Bristol City solely on squad strengthening.

But on the evidence of last night’s woeful finishing in their lacklustre win over Dutch amateur side SV Schipluiden, Roberto Martinez may step up his search to replace the Scouse favourite before the season’s opener against Oldham on August 11.

Swans boss Martinez is believed to have lined up Australian international Aloisi as a possible target to replace Swansea’s top scorer for the last four seasons.

Swansea have also been linked with a move to bring in Aston Villa striker Luke Moore.

But while the League One promotion-favourites would need to stump up the cash in their bold bid to prise away England Under-21 speedster Moore from Villa Park, a move for the former Portsmouth forward Aloisi is on the cards.

The 31-year-old is available on a free transfer after leaving Spanish second division side Alaves this summer and could be tempted by a return to English football.

The much-travelled Aloisi, who has 27 international goals for the Socceroos, featured at last year's World Cup and has played in Britain, Spain, Italy and Belgium.

Whether he is ready to add Wales to his varied CV remains the question.

icwales

JULY-31

MacLean: I'm the man to partner Fowler

When the Scot signed for Cardiff from Sheffield Wednesday at the end of June it seemed he would be forming a partnership with Michael Chopra in the Bluebirds attack.

But with Chopra gone and Fowler signed on a two-year deal, MacLean is relishing the chance to work with someone he sees as one of the best goal-scorers in the game.

The 24-year-old is not getting ahead of himself though and said his main priority at the moment has to be establishing himself in City’s first team.

He said, “I’m definitely excited about the prospect of playing up front with Robbie and I’m looking forward to it.

“But first and foremost I’ve got to earn the right to play, whoever it’s with.”

MacLean also believes working with Fowler will take his own game to the next level.

“He is a legend and I’m only 24, so hopefully I can learn off him as well,” said MacLean.

“I’m looking at his finishing and his movement and I’m sure in training he will give us pointers.

“He is a world-class striker and he has played at the highest level, so if you can’t learn from him you won’t learn from anybody.”

Having left Wednesday on a free transfer, MacLean signed a three-year deal with Cardiff and he has made an impressive start to his Bluebirds career.

His three goals in the last three games have seen him continue the form that made him the Owls’ joint top-scorer last season.

The new number nine is already enjoying life at Ninian Park but knows he will have to keep working hard if he is to figure in the Bluebirds’ opening league game on August 11 against Stoke.

www.llanelliafc.org

JULY-31

Trundle targets Republic call-up

The Liverpool-born forward, who has an Irish grandfather, is set to complete his £1m move from Swansea on Monday.

He impressed when scoring on his City debut in a 2-2 home friendly draw with Yeovil Town on Saturday.

And afterwards, Trundle told BBC Sport: "I'd like to play at the highest level and that includes internationals."

Trundle's path so far has some parallels with former Republic of Ireland striker John Aldridge.

Both Liverpool-born strikers did not turn professional until their 20s, before making a big impression at Welsh clubs (Aldridge for Newport) and going on to rise through the divisions.

Staunton is not overloaded with options up front as he struggles to lead the Republic to qualification for Euro 2008 but Trundle is an interesting prospect.

"Steve Staunton knows I'm eligible to play and looked at the level I was at, scoring goals, so I now have to do it in the Championship," he added.

BBC

JULY-31

Jones: I want a hard man

DAVE Jones has ordered his scouts and contacts throughout Europe – “Find me a hard man.”

Jones still wants one more striker to complete his Cardiff City squad for the start of the new season and a big, physical target man is a priority.

Derby County’s Steve Howard would fit the bill for the Bluebirds, but the newly-promoted Premiership club want to keep him.

City did try to sign Howard when he was at Luton Town, but were edged out by Derby.

It’s that style of player that City, who have already brought in seven new signings this summer, are keen on.

Jones has contacts and scouts working to find a target-man style of striker – in just about every European country and in places as far afield as Africa.

City were keen on Hull City’s 6ft 4ins powerhouse Jon Parkin, who would have given Cardiff a different option from the substitutes bench, but the Yorkshireman eventually signed for Stoke City because he did not want to move from his family home in Yorkshire.

icwales

JULY-31

Kaid awaits his Racecourse fate

WOULD-BE Wrexham striker Kaid Mohamed impressed Dragons boss Brian Carey after scoring twice in Saturday’s 4-1 win against Dungannon Swifts.

The 22-year-old ex-Carmarthen Town player, on trial with the Racecourse club for the past month, should learn this week if he is to be offered a contract, but he did his chances no harm with an impressive display of finishing at Strangmore Park.

Mohamed, who also scored in the friendly with Blackburn Rovers earlier this month, made way for club captain Neil Roberts late in the game and afterwards Carey said: “Kaid took his goals very well, particularly the first one. The second, which was more of a team goal, was a great finish and he also had another two or three chances.

“He is a different sort of player from the other strikers we have and he’s got an eye for goal, so we’ll make an assessment about him next week.

“Overall I’m happy with the way the lads went about the game and I’ve been pleased with the way they have behaved on the trip.

icwales

JULY-31

Fowler fever grips Cardiff

A FOWLER frenzy swept Ninian Park again as fans queued for hours to meet their new hero.

Excited fans quickly forgot the team’s dismal performance, conceding six at Stockport on Saturday, and put severe pressure on the club’s stocks of new shirts at a club open day yesterday.

After selling 3,000 shirts on the first day of sale on Friday, thousands more were sold at the ground yesterday as people queued up for an hour to get hold of one.

After picking up their shirts, fans were invited on a tour of the ground and a chance to meet the players – with queues stretching the length of Ninian Park.

Craig Davies, 26, of Caerphilly, went down to Ninian Park with his young nephew Lewis.

He said: “It’s amazing to see so many people down here. Everyone wants to see Robbie Fowler.

“I think they will need to order some more shirts because everything is selling out. The problem is there are so many queues to get anything, but at least it’s a nice day.”

Season ticket holder, David Rogers, 28, of Bedwas, also picked up a new shirt with Fowler’s name and number on the back.

He said: “I can’t believe how much interest there is in Cardiff City since Fowler signed. I think the first game is going to sell-out at this rate.

“Now we are all looking forward to seeing him get some goals on the pitch.”

Mike Jones, 48, from Canton, Cardiff, also went down to Ninian Park. He said: “I have seen so many people walking past my house with Robbie Fowler shirts on that I had to come down and see what the fuss was all about. I am confident that we can get promoted this season now.”

icwales

JULY-31

Spurs feel the power of Wolves

Any hopes of a revival in home fortunes were dashed two minutes into the second period when Rosa released Hughes, who went around replacement keeper Mike Doutch for his second goal, and Hughes completed a sweet hat-trick on 71 minutes when he put a free header past Doutch from a pinpoint Jones corner.
Hughes may have been the hat-trick hero for the visitors, but it was Jones – boasting 15 appearances for the Championship side - who caught the eye with his pace and control, and it was fitting that he should get on the scorecard with an awesome strike from 25 yards on 74 minutes.
In between the goals, Clapham cleared a Gwyn Owen effort off the line from a Nigel Moore free-kick before Jones set up goal number six when Martin Riley put away his flag kick on 76 minutes and even when Jones was subbed, David Ijaha headed a Clapham cross home to complete the scoring five minutes from time.

icwales

JULY-30

English FA's Cardiff Euro ban

CARDIFF CITY were last night told they cannot qualify for Europe via The Premiership.

English Premier League chief Sir David Richards has shocked City fans by saying The FA would not award The Bluebirds one of their prized Champions League or UEFA Cup spots – even if Cardiff were among the Premiership high fliers in a few years time.

He told Wales on Sunday: “The English FA can’t do anything about the matter because the three Welsh clubs are affiliated members to The FA.

“It is up to Cardiff, Swansea and Wrexham to pursue it with the Welsh FA. That should be the Welsh FA’s vision.”

But last night a UEFA spokesman shot down Richards’ argument. He said that clubs WERE allowed to be nominated by their host country, even if they didn’t play within its boundaries.

Should one of the Welsh clubs qualify for Europe via the English system, Richards believes the FA of Wales will have to lobby UEFA to allow the league an extra ‘special’ European place for the ‘guest’ Welsh club.

FA of Wales chief David Collins has requested urgent top-level talks with new UEFA president Michel Platini in Finland in September in a bid to sort out “one of European football’s biggest challenges”.

Secretary general Collins and FAW president Peter Rees hope to put pressure on Platini to allow the six Welsh clubs who play outside their national league and in the English pyramid to be readmitted to the FAW-run Welsh Cup – another route into Europe.

He said: “I think Cardiff, Swansea, Wrexham, Newport County, Merthyr Tydfil and Colwyn Bay are the only six clubs in Europe that currently have no chance of playing in a UEFA club competition and we think that is grossly unfair.

“The FA would never nominate a non-English club to represent them in any UEFA Cup competition so myself and our president hope to meet with the new president of UEFA to discuss how to move forward in the middle of September.

icwales

JULY-30

Welsh Premier League may yet bask in sun

THE Welsh Premier League will bask in sun – if club chiefs want a summer season, writes PETER SHUTTLEWORTH.

League chief John Deakin last night insisted The Football Association of Wales are ready to switch Welsh football’s top flight to summer in a bid to make their top clubs successful in Europe.

Welsh clubs have blamed their poor showing in Europe on coming up against Eastern bloc and Scandinavian opponents who are fitter and sharper after summer campaigns.

Only Llanelli and Connah’s Quay Nomads voted in favour of the switch 18 months ago, but League secretary Deakin confirmed the FAW would go ahead with the change if the clubs changed their minds.

Deakin said: “Mention any kind of change in the Welsh Premier and there’s rioting in the streets of Rhyl.

“But I’m an administrator, I can only make suggestions. My role is simply to implement what the clubs request me to do. If a majority of clubs want summer football, we’ll make it happen.

“What annoys me is that the Welsh clubs had a vote to switch to a summer season 18 months ago and it was overwhelmingly rejected 16 votes to two.

“Yet, whenever a Welsh club gets knocked out of Europe, which is frequent, they use the excuse that their opposition have the upper hand by playing summer football.

“If the people at Welsh football’s sharp end want summer football, then it’s worth giving it a go.

“If summer football doesn’t work, we can always go back to playing during the winter.

“Welsh Premier clubs shouldn’t accept that they’ll fall at the first hurdle in Europe – we must prove we are better than that.

“Summer football should help our teams over that first hurdle and possibly face one of Europe’s big boys.”

icwales

JULY-30

New Saints sail to victory at Laird

WELSH Premier League champions The New Saints shook off the disappointment of their champions League exit with a 2-0 win at Cammell Laird yesterday.

The Unibond League Division One hosts battled well but could not contain the Welsh full-timers.

Striker Alfie Carter struck in the sixth minute as he pounced on a loose pass by Lee Appleton.

Triallist Luke Holden sealed the result 10 minutes into the second-half when Croudson could not hold a Carter shot and picked up the rebound.

MacWhirter Welsh League champions Neath Athletic suffered a set-back as they prepare for life in the Welsh Premier League when they were beaten 2-1 by former Division One rivals Dinas Powys.

icwales

JULY-30

Monk blow leaves Swans reeling

SWANSEA CITY began life after Lee Trundle yesterday – but it was the fitness of key defender Garry Monk who was the name on the lips of the small band of travelling supporters.

Club captain Monk is expected to be out for a month after hoblbing off with an ankle midway through the first-half of their defeat to Stormvogels Telstar in their opening tour game of Holland.

Monk left the ground on crutches and was immediately sent for an X-ray at a local hospital to determine the extent of the damage.

The centre-half was injured on an artificial surface in the Hague and his absence is the last thing Roberto Martinez wanted having just seen his preparations for the new season ruined by the departure of star striker Trundle.

But there was obvious concern for Monk, who missed all of last season with a serious knee injury and now faces playing catch-up again with the new season set to start in under a fortnight.

icwales

JULY-30

Rhyl: ‘We’ll finish the Finnish’

RHYL’S Euro-wise manager John Hulse is keeping Finnish opponents FC Haka guessing over his line-up for next Thursday’s decisive return leg in the first qualifying round of the Uefa Cup in Valkeakoski.

Sitting on a stunning 3-1 lead after coming from behind to floor the nine-times Finnish champions in front of an ecstatic Belle Vue crowd of just under 1,800 last Thursday week, Hulse has no intention of enlightening the opposition on what they can expect.

“It was one of the greatest nights in the club’s history and I believe we could be in for another one,” hinted the shrewd Birkenhead-based boss who is in his fourth European adventure since taking charge of the ambitious Lilywhites.

A detailed briefing on FC Haka in advance – from a former Deeside well-wisher now based in Finland – was a helpful aid to the Rhyl chief in his pre-match preparations.

“We know this is only the half-way stage but I truly believe from what we already know that we can score out there and that would mean they would need to beat us 4-1,” he pointed out ahead of Tuesday’s flight to Finland for the crucial away leg of the tie.

icwales

JULY-30

Jones blasts defence after horror show

CARDIFF CITY manager Dave Jones blamed his defenders for the Bluebirds’ Edgeley Park horror show, claiming, “They didn’t do their jobs.”

Jones pointed the finger after City folded against his old club Stockport County, the League Two outfit chalking up an incredible 6-4 win.

Individual errors, communication breakdowns and lapses of concentration were all on show and the comedy of errors was capped by own goals from Gavin Rae and skipper Darren Purse.

“If you are going to make mistakes this is probably the best time to make them – and we certainly made some mistakes at the back,” he said.

“We’ve been working hard defensively as a team, but we have probably made more mistakes in one game than we did for long spells of last year.

“As a unit at the back they can’t hide from the fact they didn’t do their jobs. That’s what we’ll be looking at and working on in the next couple of weeks.”

Cardiff actually led 2-0 through summer signings Rae and Steve MacLean, but then conceded four times in an incredible 11-minute spell before half-time.

“We didn’t look solid at the back, but, until the own goal went in, they looked comfortable,” said Jones.

icwales

JULY-30

Double swoop by Newtown

Darren Ryan, manager of Principality Welsh Premier club Newtown, is hoping to complete his squad ahead of the new season by signing experienced midfielder Colin Loss and goalkeeper Ian Havard.

A trainee at Norwich City with former Haverfordwest County team-mate Deryn Brace, Loss also spent time at Derby County, Gresley Rovers, Bristol City and Merthyr Tydfil before entering the Welsh Premier with Barry Town, where he won championship medals.

He has latterly been with Carmarthen Town and Merthyr and has 183 league starts to his credit.

Havard, 19, is a former Shrewsbury Town trainee who was virtually ever-present for Bangor City last season after arriving at Farrar Road towards the end of the 2005/6 campaign.

Ryan was thwarted in his attempts to sign Karl Lewis from Hereford United, when the former West Bromwich Albion youth and Aberystwyth Town stopper opted instead to sign a three-year deal with Southern Premier side Bromsgrove Rovers.

Former Robin Andy Hughes was also a target, but the Welsh under-19 cap is set to return to Airbus.

icwales

JULY-29

John Hartson for Swansea?

The Swans say that the Trundle money will be made available for squad strengthening with rumours that the club could move for West Brom's John Hartson, a Swansea fan who has always expressed his desire to end his career at the club.

"Swansea is a really good club right now, there's lots of money there and I'm sure that the Trundle cash will be made available to Martinez to strengthen the squad," said Curtis

"Somebody is going to have to step in to Lee's boots and the speculation that keeps coming up is Hartson.

"I don't know what his situation is at West Brom, but I'm sure he's somebody who could score goals at this level and it may be a route that the club wants to pursue."

Chairman Jenkins did not rule out a move for the Wales international, but said that the decision was down to Martinez.

"Signing Hartson would placate the fans, but you'd have to ask Roberto if it would fit the style of play he wants, Roberto's the man to make that call," said Jenkins.

Hartson seems unlikely to be Martinez's choice, with Aston Villa's England Under-21 international striker Luke Moore a more probable target.

Hibernian defender Rob Jones is also thought to be on Swansea's wish list, but the club have insisted that they will not panic buy.

BBC

JULY-29

Turnbull unfazed by leaky Cardiff

New Cardiff goalkeeper Ross Turnbull says he was undaunted after watching their woeful defending from the stands in the 6-4 friendly loss at Stockport.

"It was only a friendly, we'll look to pick up before the season starts," said Turnbull, who completed a 12-month loan switch from Middlesbrough on Friday.

"I've been looking for regular football and Cardiff is a massive club. I wanted to come as soon as there was interest."

Turnbull says that Cardiff was recommended to him by ex-Bluebirds striker Michael Chopra.

"I'm friends with Michael and he told me great things about Cardiff," Turnbull told BBC Sport Wales.

"The Robbie Fowler signing has just added to the excitement here, of course I'm looking forward to playing with him.

"I'm still a young player with a lot to learn, but Middlesbrough rate me highly.

"I command the area, play it out from the back, and - of course - like to keep clean sheets!"

The latter statement will be good news to the Bluebirds after the Stockport horror show.

BBC

JULY-29

Trundle scores on Bristol debut

The Robins went 2-0 down before the striker got his first goal for his new club and helped make a late equaliser.

Trundle was given permission to play at Ashton Gate by Swansea and the Football Association of Wales, although his move from the Swans is not yet complete.

Trundle, 30, has agreed personal terms with the Robins and is expected to complete a £1m transfer on Monday.

"As a forward it was great to get a goal on my debut, that's what it's all about and working on my fitness ahead of the start of the season," said Trundle, under Swansea contract to 2009.

BBC

JULY-29

Cardiff lose out in 10 goal thriller

Cardiff's big summer signing Robbie Fowler watched from the stands but played no part in the game.

Fowler is expected to make his Bluebirds debut in a friendly against FC Twente at Ninian Park next Saturday.

BBC

JULY-29

Mohamed too swift for Swifts

The ex-Carmarthen Town striker's clever movement caused trouble from the start and he gave Wrexham the lead with an unstoppable 20-yarder before the break.

Mark Williams drove in a fierce strike, 22-year-old Mohamed added a glancing header, and Williams tapped in as the Welsh side ran riot after the break.

Shane McCabe got a late consolation strike for the Swifts.

BBC

JULY-29

How to spend the £1M to replace Trundle

Evening Post

JULY-28

Trundle: My heartache at leaving Swansea

LEE Trundle today spoke for the first time about quitting Swansea City and admitted: "I had to make the decision with my head not my heart."

In an exclusive interview with the Evening Post, the Scouser star revealed how he agonised over whether to leave after Bristol City weighed in with a bumper £1million bid for his services. And Trundle explained that for all his feeling for Swansea, he had to turn his back on the club in order to grasp what could be his final chance to play Championship football.
"I want the Swansea fans to know how hard it was for me make to this decision," Trundle said.
"When I was at Wrexham, I just saw it as a club to play for. But Swansea was different.
"I moved to the city and was surrounded by people who loved the club. That made me feel more part of Swansea and playing for the club really pulled at my heart strings.
"I agonised over whether to leave that behind - it wasn't a case of Bristol City coming in and me saying yes.
"I spoke to a lot of people - my family, my friends, my team-mates - and I had to distance myself from my heart and think 'Is this going to help my career?'
"In the end I decided I had to go because I didn't want to take the risk of not getting another opportunity to play in the Championship, which is somewhere I want to prove myself.
"I didn't want to get there aged 33 or 34 and not be the same player I am now. I wanted to go there when I'm fit and strong and show the people who have doubted me that I can score goals at that level."

Trundle deliberately contacted the Post because he wanted to explain his decision to end his stay in South Wales to Swansea's supporters.
And he hopes the thousands who roared him on throughout four spectacular years will not turn against him now.
"I know some of the fans will be upset and I will probably get people who knock me and get on my back for going," Trundle added.
"But I just hope the true fans realise they were a massive factor when I was deciding whether to go and I hope they remember all the good things. I think I did a lot for the club, and I realise too that the club did a lot for me.
"I hope if I ever do come back to play against Swansea they won't boo me, because that would break my heart."

Exclusive by Gareth Vincent

JULY-28

Rhyl boss ready for talks with duo

RHYL manager John Hulse is set to speak to New Zealand striker Michael White and Italian midfielder Gianluca Graziolo about their futures.

The duo again impressed in the 2-1 win at Ashville in Cheshire in midweek, although neither is eligible for the second leg of the Uefa Cup first qualifying round against FC Haka in Finland on Thursday.

White, 20, fired a hat-trick on his debut in the 7-0 demolition of Sutton Common to instantly win over the Rhyl fans, a game in which Graziolo also scored.

Both again looked the part against Ashville with White blasting home a Matty Holt throw-in with a spectacular scissor-kick before Danny Desmoreaux netted Rhyl’s winner with 10 minutes to go.

“They both did well and I will be talking to them,” Hulse said. “I am looking at a few players.”

icwales

JULY-28

Hotspur face top Wolves aces

HUNGARIAN midfielder Denes Rosa, who has played for his country 10 times, will be among a dozen top pros appearing for Wolverhampton Wanderers at Holyhead Hotspur today.

The pre-season friendly attraction will mark the reopening of the Cymru Alliance club’s New Stadium base, which has been revamped at a cost of £183,000.

Wolves, whose academy director Chris Evans was previously in charge of Anglesey Borough Council’s football development scheme, will field a strong line-up.

Their squad will also include Mark Little, Jamie Clapham, Jermaine Johnson, Daniel Jones and Martin Riley.

But 20-year-old Beaumaris-born Wales goalkeeper Wayne Hennessey will not be risked by manager Mick McCarthy, although his family will attend the game.

Wolves, Sunderland, Wrexham and Rochdale have played at the stadium and Wales took on Northern Ireland in an under-17s international there.

The stadium fell into disrepair but now has a new pitch and a refurbished 500-seater stands.

icwales

JULY-28

Trundle given friendly green light

BRISTOL CITY have been granted permission to field Lee Trundle in a friendly against Yeovil this afternoon.

The 30-year-old striker will officially complete his transfer – thought to be worth around £1million – from Swansea on Monday.

Trundle scored 19 goals in 30 Coca-Cola League One appearances for the Swans last season and is now set to play a key role as City look to consolidate their promotion to the Championship.

Swansea chairman Huw Jenkins told the club’s official website, 
“It’s a very sad day for the club because we tried everything possible to keep Lee.

“We spoke about a wage increase amongst other incentives, but the one thing we couldn’t guarantee him this season was Championship football.”

icwales

JULY-28

Robbie shirt mania hits Bluebirds

CARDIFF City chairman Peter Ridsdale today hailed the Robbie Fowler effect as record numbers of Bluebirds shirts flew off the shelves.

Close on 3,000 Fowler number eight jerseys were snapped up within hours of them going on sale yesterday.

And all the profits go to club coffers, with Fowler not cut in on any image rights deal.

“Fowler has caught the imagination of the people,” said Ridsdale.

“He has benefited the club because there are no image rights or anything else, the profit will come directly to the club to be used elsewhere.

“And to be fair to Robbie he was happy with that.

“He is on a basic wage, and an appearance and promotion bonus like every other player at the club.”

The Fowler feel-good factor has also shown itself in season ticket sales.

More than 100 went out yesterday as the July 31 deadline for discounted tickets approaches.

City play Stockport County today, but manager Dave Jones is saving Fowler for his home debut next Saturday against Dutch outfit FC Twente, a game which is sure to attract a huge pre-season crowd.

icwales

JULY-28

Swans recall striker from Accies

The 17-year-old, currently on international duty with the Welsh Under-19 squad, is now wanted by the Swans for their first-team squad.

Jones made his Swansea debut against Walsall in the Carling Cup last season.

Meanwhile, Accies have released Nathan Taylor, a 17-year-old striker who broke into the first-team last term.

BBC

JULY-28

Irish trip has helps Wrexham morale

CAPTAIN Neil Roberts has hailed Wrexham’s week-long stay in Northern Ireland a success and believes the benefits will become apparent during the season ahead.

The 29-year-old striker, who scored one of his side’s goals in Wednesday evening’s 2-1 win over Cliftonville, claimed morale in the camp was high and that the objectives of the trip had been achieved.

“I think it’s been a really good week for everyone,” he said. “We’ve trained hard as a group and we’ve played hard, in the right sense of the word.

“Andy O’Boyle (fitness coach) is very pleased with the physical test results that have just come back, which show that all the lads are where he hoped they would be in terms of fitness, so that’s another positive.

“The lads who have just joined the club have settled in well and this week has given them the opportunity to get to know everyone better, which is another plus and you could see when we went paint-balling in the week how much bonding has gone on.”

icwales

JULY-27

Welsh Premier joins Euro family

The move means that the league is likely to have a bigger say in European football issues in future.

"I'm delighted to be part of the European family," Welsh Premier Secretary John Deakin told BBC Sport.

"It's interesting to see what other leagues are doing and what we can learn from them, it will benefit us greatly."

BBC

JULY-27

Another Spaniard arrives at Stebo

Pedro has been brought up through the Real Madrid junior system and in the last three years he has been associated with youth football at Athletico Madrid,Getafe and Villarosa.

He is a left sided player ,who impressed Manager,Peter Nicholas,in his first training session on Thursday although Peter insisted, " That the player needed to be seen in a proper match!"

Llanelli official website

JULY-27

Another Spaniard arrives at Stebo

Pedro has been brought up through the Real Madrid junior system and in the last three years he has been associated with youth football at Athletico Madrid,Getafe and Villarosa.

He is a left sided player ,who impressed Manager,Peter Nicholas,in his first training session on Thursday although Peter insisted, " That the player needed to be seen in a proper match!"

Llanelli official website

JULY-27

Trundle hands in transfer request

Speculation grew when the striker, 30, was left out of Swansea's 1-1 friendly draw at Port Talbot on Wednesday.

The Swans rejected a move for Trundle from new Championship side the Robins last week, and turned down a £750,000 bid from Sheffield Wednesday in 2005.

But it is believed that the Ashton Gate side have returned with an acceptable offer thought to be close to £1m.

Swansea City manager Roberto Martinez said on Wednesday that he knew nothing of the rumours and that he was keen to keep the club's top scorer of the last four seasons.

"I'll never try to sell Lee," Martinez told BBC Sport Wales after the Remax Stadium draw.

"I've told him many times how important he is to Swansea City, the club is not going to try to sell him.

BBC

JULY-27

Maesteg put on a brave face

ALTHOUGH the threat of closure still hangs over them, Maesteg Park Football Club have commenced pre-season training.

Steve Boydell has agreed to organise the sessions on a voluntary basis, and the response from players will give an indication of whether there is any chance of the club surviving.

Maesteg are training at Tudor Park on Monday and Wednesday evenings (6.30pm), and new players are invited to participate.

The Old Parish side have just a month to turn things around otherwise they will close, bringing to an end a 62-year history.

It would also signal the end of Welsh League grade football in the Llynfi Valley.

icwales

JULY-27

Legg says "Reds can be Premier Champs"

Llanelli have been backed to lift the Welsh Premier League title for the first time this season - by ex-Reds star Andy Legg. The former Welsh international believes Peter Nicholas's side can achieve the club's greatest feat should they strengthen the squad with a few acquisitions.

Legg, whose has had two stints at Llanelli, admits his first-hand knowledge of the club has given him the belief that the Reds will become champions come April.

Ex-Swansea, Cardiff, Reading and Birmingham midfielder Legg featured in the Uefa Cup matches with Odense last season and also played six domestic matches for the Reds before switching to Hucknall Town.

Evening Post

JULY-27

Delaney keen on Ninian return

FORMER Cardiff City favourite Mark Delaney would relish a move back to Ninian Park, it has emerged.

Reports emanating from the Midlands have linked the Aston Villa defender with a shock move back to the Bluebirds.

The Wales international is currently in Canada with Villa on a pre-season tour and is back in training after recovering from a knee injury.

The Western Mail understands Cardiff manager Dave Jones has made tentative enquiries about whether the 31-year-old would be interested in a move back to Ninian Park.

Delaney was recently handed a three-month extension to his contract at Villa Park as manager Martin O’Neill gives him time to prove his fitness.

Delaney is set for talks about his future with O’Neill when the Villa squad returns to Britain on Monday.

But a source close to the player said if the future was away from Villa Park, then Cardiff would be Delaney’s preferred option.

icwales

JULY-27

Wrexham break even in first 12 months

FROM a club on the brink, to a club breaking even. Whatever people may think about the new regime at the Racecourse, that little fact is still mighty impressive.

In fact, Wrexham even spent £100,000 on loan signings last season as they battled against relegation from the Football League, but the club still managed to break even for the year.

Just 12 months after bringing the Racecourse club out of administration, directors Neville Dickens, Geoff Moss and Anthony Fairclough this week issued a frank assessment of progress since the takeover last summer.

And while admitting there was still some way to go before achieving all their objectives, they said they were optimistic that the club was now heading in the right direction, both on and off the field of play.

“If we are to take the club forward we have got to build the infrastructure and put the business on solid foundations, something that has been sadly neglected over many years,” said Moss.

“On taking over we found many more problems than we had anticipated and so it has been harder than we thought, but our aim is long-term financial stability.

“Bearing in mind we took the club over at the very last minute in terms of last season, we were prepared to accept we would have a trading loss for the year, but we are now looking at a break-even scenario.

icwales

JULY-27

Shock win for TNS's Harris

OUTSPOKEN TNS chairman Mike Harris has won a shock place on the FAW’s ruling council.

Harris received the news as his team arrived back in Britain from Latvia after agonisingly going out of the Champions League to FK Ventspils on away goals.

The dynamic, go-ahead boss of the Welsh champions comfortably ousted Alun Evans in the battle for the one Welsh Premier seat available on the FAW.

Evans, the former FAW secretary, was expected to easily retain his seat.

But he was beaten by a 10-5 vote, with the remaining clubs abstaining.

Harris has strong views on how Welsh football should be run and in the past has launched no-holds-barred blasts at FAW chief David Collins.

The working rapport between the two men over the next three years should be interesting and many in Welsh football would like to be a fly on the wall during the discussions.

Evans was said to be disconsolate at losing his place on the FAW.

Even though Evans would not have taken his place for granted, many people within the Welsh Premier presumed he was a shoe-in to be voted back on.

But clearly the vision and energy Harris has shown in recent times had an impact when it came to voting.

On hearing the news of his election, Harris said, “I am obviously delighted clubs within the league have shown confidence in me.”

icwales

JULY-27

Major new sponsorship deal for Wrexham

THE Mold Road stand at Wrexham’s Racecourse home will be named the Marstons Stand next season as part of a major sponsorship deal being negotiated with the Midlands drinks giant.

Club chairman Neville Dickens revealed the five-year deal would be worth “a six-figure sum”, with the brewery’s beers and spirits being sold throughout the stadium.

Speaking during his brief visit to Northern Ireland to watch the Dragons beat Cliftonville 2-1 on Wednesday evening, Dickens claimed the deal was excellent news both for Wrexham and the brewery.

“It will be a great partnership and is a vital element in our plans to take the club forward,” he said.

“We have been working hard for 12 months to secure this sponsorship.

“The deal has been agreed in principle by the company’s local directors and is subject to full board approval, which should be a formality.”

icwales

JULY-26

Martinez plays it cool on Trundle

Roberto Martinez did his best to bat away questions about Lee Trundle after the Scouse star missed last night's 1-1 draw at Port Talbot.

Trundle's absence sparked rumours that the 30-year-old is on his way to Bristol City in a deal worth at least £1million.

But Martinez insisted the striker sat out because of groin injury and reiterated that Swansea do not want him to leave.

Evening Post

JULY-26

Bluebirds swoop for Boro keeper

The 22-year-old, 6ft 4ins stopper has made two Premiership appearances and has also had loan spells at Darlington, Barnsley, Bradford and Crewe.

He is the second keeper to join the Bluebirds this summer, following the acquisition of the ex-Wolves player Michael Oakes.

Irishman David Forde finished last season as number one.

Ross, from Newton Aycliffe, was an England youth international, and has been with Middlesborough since he was a schoolboy.

BBC

JULY-26

McKenna rueful after Saints' exit

"It's the same as last year," he said after a 2-1 loss at FK Venstpils saw them draw the two-leg first qualifying round 4-4 but go out on away goals.

"We did really well in the first leg and struggled in the second. It's disappointing, but it's our pre-season.

"I'm 100% certain that if the roles were reversed we would have won these games comfortably."

McKenna had no complaints about the result in Latvia on the night.

"The best team won the game, I just wish my lads believed in themselves more," he told BBC Sport Wales.

"We could have scored six against them at home and have taken a comfortable lead into the second leg.

"But it was another big game, and we gained more experience in a hostile atmosphere."

Barry Town remain the only team from the Welsh Premier to have reached the second qualifying stage of Europe's premier club competition.

Then-manager Peter Nicholas took Barry to victory over FC Shamkir in the first round in 2001.

BBC

JULY-26

Ridsdale denied FAW council seat

Ridsdale stood in the south Wales area elections and polled 14 votes, but the sitting members were all returned by the clubs.

"I don't think anyone will be surprised but I thought it was right to show Cardiff were still playing football in Wales," Ridsdale told BBC Sport Wales.

"The rejection will give me more time to concentrate on my work at Cardiff."

BBC

JULY-26

Trundle the £1m man

Lee Trundle was last night considering quitting Swansea City after Bristol City weighed in with a bumper £1million offer for the striker. The Scouser star missed last night's friendly at Port Talbot after the Robins spelled out their desire to secure his signature.

The Championship new boys' first bid for Trundle, which would have seen them pay just £300,000 up front, was dismissed out of hand by Swansea's money men.

But their latest offer, which is thought to be their fourth or fifth, will see a guaranteed £1million - and possibly even more - heading for Swansea's coffers, although it will not be paid in one lump sum.

icWales

JULY-26

Brace says We'll show the real us"

Carmarthen Town boss Deryn Brace is determined not to head to Norway next week "just to make up the numbers".
The Richmond Park side are all but out of the Uefa Cup following their 8-0 home drubbing at hands of Norwegian league leaders SK Brann.
And now the new Old Gold supremo's first major task since taking over the reins from Mark Jones is to try to lift his players to ensure they do not receive a hammering like they did last Thursday night." Everyone was hurting after the game so there was no need for me to go throwing tea-cups about," Brace said.
"The lads will want to go out there and put in a performance and show the real us.
"They won't want to go out there and be an embarrassment."

Brace was indebted to the heroics of keeper Neil Thomas despite the 8-0 scoreline.
If it had not been for the Town stopper, Brann could have headed back to Scandinavia having hit double figures.
"Neil Thomas is a fantastic goalkeeper," said Brace.
"He puts in that kind of performance week in, week out - obviously not as frequently as he did in this game."
While Brann showed a ruthless streak in hammering home eight goals, the former Wrexham and Norwich man felt it was not only the Norwegian outfit that led to Carmarthen's undoing.
"We were as bad as they were good," Brace said.
"In the first half they had eight attacks, led 5-0 and missed three sitters.
"Out of the eight goals we have given them four. Whatever level you play at you don't won't lose 8-0 and you shouldn't lose 8-0."
However, Carmarthen will travel to Norway knowing that a successive European campaign is at an end.

Carmarthen Journal

JULY-26

Lay off our Quay man says Hackett

SEVERELY depleted Connah's Quay Nomads have rejected a bid by Bangor City to include central defender Chris Williams in the Deeside exodus.

New City manager Neville Powell, who left Nomads after 14 seasons in charge this summer to return to his old club at Farrar Road, has already acquired the cream of his old squad ready for the upcoming league campaign.

Now Nomads have received a formal approach for powerful Williams, 22, but have told Bangor they are not letting go of their prized asset.

Nomads new boss Jim Hackett said: "Chris is a big, strong lad who is contracted to us, and while we would never stand in his way we are certainly not prepared to just tear up his contract.

"He can play anywhere at the back, and as pretty much everyone else has left Nomads we are in no position at this late stage to lose him too."

Gary Pinch has remained loyal to the Deesiders, while young striker Adam Dickinson is currently in Australia hoping to persuade Sydney FC to take him on.

Dickinson was watched by Stockport County, Wrexham, Swansea and even Royal Antwerp in trials last season but is still awaiting his chance to break into the big time.

"If nothing comes of the Sydney interest then he could be back with us for the new season, but otherwise I've had to virtually start from scratch," said Hackett, who has been looking at available players at both Congleton and Heswall.

Hackett has already signed strikers John McAllister, from Congleton, and Mark Cadwallader, who ironically was previously with Bangor City.

Both are expected to feature in Nomads’ friendly against Chester tonight and at new Cymru Alliance club Denbigh Town on Saturday.

icWales

JULY-26

Bluebirds fly into Cynon Valley

A CHARITY football match will see the Bluebirds visit the Cynon Valley.

Cardiff City have agreed to play Aberaman Legion in a pre-season friendly on Sunday, August 22, to raise money for the Poppy Appeal.

The two teams will include some well-known household names.

Prolific Bluebirds striker Simon Stokes will also take to the pitch in the second half.

“The game has been a long time in the offing but finally we have agreed a date,” said Aberaman Legion manager Dilwyn Pritchard.

“This is a great coup for the club, the Aberdare Valley Football League and the Cynon Valley.

“And hopefully we will raise a lot of money for a very worthwhile cause.”

Entrance to the game will be £1, with all funds going to the Poppy Appeal.

The match is being sponsored by Aberaman-based Heatwise.

* For further details visit the club’s website

icWales

JULY-26

Wrexham win against Cliftonville

Francis Murphy gave Cliftonville the lead before the break, firing a rising shot in with the defence frozen.

Eifion Williams levelled after the break, keeper John Connolly parrying the striker's initial shot back into the path of the summer signing.

A quick Ryan Valentine free kick freed Neil Roberts on 79 minutes, the Wrexham captain side-footing in the winner.

Att: 600

BBC

JULY-26

Missing Trundle fuels speculation

LEE TRUNDLE’S absence was the story of the night as Swansea City drew 1-1 with Port Talbot in the last of their pre-season friendlies against Welsh Premiership opposition.

The talismanic striker was nowhere to be seen at the Remax Stadium, fuelling rumours that he will soon complete his transfer to Bristol City.

His presence up front was definitely missed and the Swans struggled to create many chances throughout the game.

Roberto Martinez used the game to give as many players as possible match practice. He picked a surprising starting XI with Andy Robinson being chosen to partner trialist Ibarahima Thiam up front.

There was also a welcome return for Dennis Lawrence in defence with returning captain Gary Monk at the back.

Kristian O’Leary continued his return from injury and started in midfield alongside Ian Craney, recovered from the knock that kept him out of last week’s game against Llanelli.

icWales

JULY-25

TNS crash out following defeat in Latvia

The Saints gave themselves late hope by pulling one goal back through Martyn Naylor to level the scores on aggregate to 4-4, but this wasn't enough for Ken McKenna's unlucky side.

The Welsh Champions competed well in the opening half and came close to opening the scoring on twelve minutes when midfielder Steve Beck fired over the bar. The forceful Cameroonian defender Jean-Paul Ndeki gave Latvian's Ventspils the lead though after 27 minutes with a clinical header. Despite the aggregate score of 3-3, this meant that the Saints had to score as they were going out of the competition on Away Goals. They almost did get the leveller as defender Duane Courtney came close to equalising just before Half-Time, when he powered a header towards the top corner, only to see the home 'keeper Davidov tip it over the bar.

The second goal then came though as Denis Kachanov scored Ventspils' second on 53 minutes, which meant that Ken McKenna's side had to score twice in the final 37 minutes to avoid going out of the Champions League and missing out on European progression for the first time in their History.

Sub Martin Naylor dramatically levelled the tie on aggregate from a free kick in injury time to give the Welsh champions real hope, with the ball bouncing in off the keeper's left hand post, but time just ran out for the Champions of Wales and they cruelly miss out on a place in Round Two against Red Bull Salzburg of Austria.

icWales

JULY-25

TNS striker misses champions league tie

County Times

JULY-25

Ponty Town turn back the clock

PONTYPRIDD Town are to play in the colours last worn by the Pontypridd Dragons more than 80 years ago.

The Dragons, who disbanded in 1926, wore black-and-white striped shirts which have been copied by Town for their new Welsh League Division One season.

Kit sponsors DCS Light Haulage will have their name emblazoned in gold letters on the new Newcastle United-style shirt.

Town’s away kit will be yellow with blue trim and the juniors will continue to play in all-white shirts.

Club spokesman Ceri James said: “We are delighted that Dean Jones and DCS have decided to continue with a sponsorship which has been in place for several years, and we appreciate the fact that the company has shown us tremendous loyalty through thick and thin.”

This week, the club embark on an intensive pre-season friendly programme beginning on Tuesday with a game away to Butetown, followed by fixtures on Thursday at Llantwit Major (kick-off 7pm) and Saturday at Pentwyn Dynamo (kick-off 3pm).

Next week, the team travel to play Chepstow on Thursday, August 2 (7pm) before a home game against Risca on Saturday, August 4. Pre-season is completed with a game away to Caerau (Ely) on Tuesday, August 7.

After another excellent turn-out of 24 players at training last week, manager Mal Camilleri said: “We have already signed a number of players, but it is essential that we see as many as possible in a game situation.

“I have been delighted with the way things have gone so far and I am optimistic of putting together a competitive squad for this season.”

icWales

JULY-25

Bosses play down Euro success

NEW SAINTS boss Ken McKenna and Rhyl manager John Hulse are still on cloud nine after their sides chalked up memorable wins in Europe last week – but they are determined not to get carried off with the job just half done.

Hulse described Rhyl’s display in beating FC Haka 3-1 as “brilliant,” but warned that they cannot rest on their laurels despite a two-goal advantage.

“I thought it was a brilliant performance from the lads. I am delighted for everyone concerned with the club, but the tie is far from over,” said Hulse.

“However I believe we can go over there and score more goals.”

“My players acted like true professionals and I am thrilled they got the reward they deserved.”

TNS also had every reason to be pleased with themselves after a 3-2 triumph over FK Ventspils – and they attracted widespread praise, including a glowing compliment from Giovanni Trapattoni, the former Juventus and Inter Milan manager, in charge of Red Bull Salzburg,possibly the next opponents for the Welsh club.

“TNS are great fighters. It was a good game and they showed tremendous spirit. They have real quality,” said Trapattoni.

icWales

JULY-25

Pennock is the spy in Swans camp

Tony Pennock hopes Roberto Martinez won't change tactics at the last minute tonight when they stand in opposing dugouts at Port Talbot. Swansea City's visit to the RE/MAX Stadium marks the start of Pennock's reign as the Steelmen's player-manager.

But the former Yeovil stopper has spent little time studying the opposition - because he doubles up as Swansea's goalkeeping coach.

"I trained with Swansea yesterday so, hopefully, they won't change formation," joked Pennock

"It's going to be a difficult night for us because it's our first pre-season game and I'm sure the lads will be breathing heavily.

"But it's a fantastic fixture for Port Talbot. They gave Swansea a really tough night and ended up winning 2-1 in the FAW Premier Cup match last season.

"Swansea won't want that to happen again, but it's a great opportunity for some of our lads and, hopefully, we can give a good account of ourselves."

Port Talbot could include a host of ex-Swansea players, including Leigh De-Vulgt, Chad Bond, Matthew Rees, Lee Surman and summer signing Gareth Phillips.

The new Gerald McCreesh Stand will be officially opened tonight, while the fixture cements a new partnership between the clubs which will see Swansea youngsters joining Pennock's side on loan.

"The link-up is great for both parties," said Port Talbot chairman Andrew Edwards.

"We've had a great relationship with Swansea over the years, but it has got to work for us as well as them. It has got to improve our side, but the prospect is very exciting."

Evening Post

JULY-25

Ridsdale’s focus turns to other transfer

PETER Ridsdale today put the Robbie Fowler transfer behind him – and turned to new priorities.

The Fowler deal has dominated for several weeks, but now Cardiff City chairman Ridsdale must work with manager Dave Jones to bring in a goalkeeper and a striker to complete the squad.

Ridsdale will also step up negotiations for a new training ground – and that looks increasingly likely to be at Uwic, Llandaff.

City also want to find new clubs for a couple of players who look unlikely to figure.

Steve Thompson, who will be out injured for up to six months after damaging his groin, and Kevin Cooper are on the transfer list, while Irishman Jason Byrne could also be available.

Jones is keen to add a third goalkeeper to his squad and he will be in for the start of the Championship season against Stoke on August 11, while Cardiff may play a more patient game on the striker.

Now they have Fowler, City have until the end of August before the transfer window closes.

Jones is keen on Rowan Vine at Birmingham City, but may prefer a player more in the style of Derby County target man Steve Howard.

icWales

JULY-25

Spurs usher in new era

JULY-25

New bid for Trundle

Bristol City have reportedly made a new bid for Swansea City star striker Lee Trundle. The Championship new boys have made three bids for the Scouser in the past fortnight which have all been rejected by the Liberty Stadium outfit.

But it has been claimed by the Western Daily Press that the Ashton Gate side have now matched Swansea's valuation of the 30-year-old.

Evening Post

JULY-25

County get back to winning ways

COUNTY made the short trip across the Severn Bridge to Clevedon last night and returned in high spirits after recording their first pre-season win at the second attempt.

It was a night of some confusion with County manager Peter Beadle making no fewer than 12 substitutions and the Hand Stadium announcer crediting Damon Searle with a hat-trick (despite the fact that he went off with a dead leg after half an hour).

For the record the Exiles came out 4-1 winners thanks to goals from Craig Hughes, Sam O'Sullivan, and two from second half sub Charlie Griffin, who came on in Searle's number three shirt and had a late third effort ruled out for offside. The unlucky Ian Hillier diverted the ball into his own net for the sole Clevedon goal.

Sporting their new all-red change strip, County looked a cut above the Southern League Premier Division outfit and produced an entertaining game for the large travelling contingent, particularly in the first half.

New signings Lee Jarman and Mark Dodds looked like they have the makings of a good partnership in central defence and O'Sullivan caught the eye with the best goal of the match, cutting in from the left flank, beating his man and tucking in the rebound after his thumping first-time shot was beaten out.

Beadle was delighted with the way O'Sullivan and other youngsters like Chris Leek and Shane Brewer performed.

South Wales Argus

JULY-25

New windfall refreshes promotion ambitions

Swansea City admit the £90million windfall received by the Football League has given them a fresh incentive to reach the Championship. The 'solidarity package' will be paid for by the Premier League and runs over the next three seasons.

A sum of £31.8million will be split between the three Coca-Cola divisions next year, with Championship sides receiving between £775,000 and £1.383million each depending on their final league placings last term.

Clubs in League One, meanwhile, will receive just £103,480 each, with £68,987 going to League Two sides.

"We welcome this additional funding," said Swansea director David Morgan.

"But the difference in the figures involved between sides in League One and the Championship just shows again why everyone at Swansea City is desperate to win promotion in the coming season.

"We realise every side in our division will be saying the same, but that is the challenge that awaits us."

The Premier League have agreed to redistribute a proportion of their income on condition that some of the cash is spent on youth development.

"The Premier League and our member clubs recognise the importance of the continued health of the professional game at all levels," said Premier League chief executive Richard Scudamore.

Football League chairman Lord Mawhinney added: "This is a generous offer and on behalf of our clubs, I offer my thanks."

Evening Post

JULY-25

Price out to seize Swans chance

The Wales Under-19 winger, aged 18, impressed against Neath and Llanelli last week, but does not know if he will be invited on the tour to Holland.

"I just want a chance to prove what I can do," he told the Evening Post.

Price, called the 'next Robbie Savage' when he joined Birmingham in 2004, was released by the Blues this summer.

BBC

JULY-24

ENTO Aberaman a team going places

Furnished with a good sponsorship deal with ENTO they have been picking up the pieces of Pontypridd's top defecting squad of last season.

Their website announced their 6 new signings, plus the top players from their squad from last season.

Steve Pearce wrote on the ENTO Aberaman website:

"Joining the club during the close season are much travelled and experienced striker Chris Summers from Pontypridd Town followed by team mates from last season left wingback Dan Marshall, captain and midfielder Dean Morris and centre half Atif Bashir. In addition the club has secured the signing of centre half Matthew Driscoll from Barry Town along with former Penrhiwceiber Rangers front man Ryan Buchmann.

Completing a very strong squad are goalkeeper Neil Collins, sweeper Craig Hewings, centre half Gareth Jones, right wing back Richard Jago, midfield players Steve Powell and Paul Dawes as well as utility player and former Cardiff City defender Anthony Taylor. Making up the squad are the highly experienced captain and last season's Player of the Year Neil Davies and former Preston North End, Burnley and Brighton striker Kurt Nogan.

Manager David Morgan will be hoping to add two further players to the squad before the season gets underway in August with a further midfield player and striker the top targets.

"I am delighted with the squad we have assembled, a combination of the best of last season with some exciting new signings that will make us a real force in the Division and hopefully see us improve on our sixth place finish of last season. I have strengthened in key positions and brought proven players to the club with experience at not just a higher level but experience of winning championships" commented Morgan.

"This season is one where we will need to stand up and be counted and to really push hard for a place in the Welsh Premier league the following season" added Morgan"

Tony

JULY-24

Reds snap up Pritchard

The ex-Wales Under 21 International agreed a one year contract with the Reds last night after impressing boss Peter Nicholas on trial at Stebonheath. Pritchard featured in the games against Swansea City and Havant & Waterlooville. Nicholas told the club's Official Website "I'm delighted to have signed an extremely talented player, who should do very well at this level"

I'm delighted to have signed an extremely talented player, who should do very well at this level

Pritchard is 21 and has also spent some time at Merthyr Tydfil before his release from the Swans. He is a quick striker with a good eye for goal but certainly has big boots to fill since Mingorance's departure. His style of play will certainly complement leading striker Rhys Griffiths, so it will be interesting to see how the Cardiff-born hitman does in Wales' top flight

Welshpremier.com

JULY-24

Martinez feels the benefit of going Dutch

THE continental flavour of Roberto Martinez’s new squad has seen the manager going Dutch this summer and new signings Ferrie Bodde and Dorus de Vries insist the Spaniard’s passion and style was the key to their arrivals.

Martinez moved quickly to sign the pair and in Bodde and de Vries, the 34-year-old believes he has found two of Europe’s best kept secrets.

Midfield general Bodde joins the club after a four-season stint in the Dutch First Division with Den Haag ended in relegation last season.

The combative 25-year-old has represented Holland at U23 and Olympic level, playing alongside the likes of Arjen Robben.

He admits it was hard to leave Holland after 15 years with Den Haag but believes his new manager is the right man to help make his dream of Premiership football come true.

IcWales

JULY-24

Now ’God’ is a City star

The England striker was today paraded by the Bluebirds in front of the media and the 32-year-old declared he is focused on helping the Bluebirds achieve their Premiership dream.

“There is pressure on me, but I can handle that,” said Fowler.
“I have a good few years left in me.
“I have come here to score goals and play my part and I am confident I will do that.
“People talk about my age, but I’m 32-years-old, not 38.
“Hopefully I can help the manager and the players at Cardiff City achieve their aim of promotion to the Premiership.”

Fowler, who is to wear the number eight shirt previously worn by Michael Chopra, strode into a packed boardroom at Ninian Park this morning to meet the media.
He was accompanied by chairman Peter Ridsdale and manager Dave Jones.

“Football is all I have known and I want to play football,” said Fowler.
“There were a few clubs came in.
“Would I rather be in the Premier League fighting relegation or playing for Cardiff City going forward?
“It’s a no-brainer. It was Cardiff all the way. Growing up I played Sunday League football, so it doesn’t matter where you play. The Championship is a good standard and I will do everything I can to help Cardiff City go up.
“Supporters are a great help to any team. They are extremely passionate at Cardiff.
“The manager, Dave Jones, is a scouser like myself and that’s great.”

IcWales

JULY-24

New Saints gear up for cup clash

The overall winners advance to face Austrians FC Salzburg in the second qualifying round.

If the Saints make it, they will be just the second Welsh Premier team to reach that stage, following the path of Barry Town who overcame FC Shamkir in 2001.

BBC

JULY-24

Hackett adds two more to Nomads

Mattie Phillips returns to the club after spells with Caernarfon Town and and Airbus Uk. Phillips is a striker and was a Nomads player as a youngster and was always highly thought of by the Deesiders. The Chester born, 22-year old has been with Hackett's squad since the start of pre-season and has worked very hard to get himself fit. He scored the team's goal in their Friendly against Mynydd Isa and has been rewarded with a deal for the forthcoming season.

Another addition is Ross Abercrombie, who is a newcomer to the League. He is a defender who was with Heswall last season and is a dedicated player who has been on trial following a written request. He is a young player who should develop during the course of the season.

Welshpremier.com

JULY-24

Trundle moving on "but with us"

Roberto Martinez is tipping Lee Trundle to find the form of his life next season - and is convinced he will do so in a Swansea City shirt. Swansea say they have rejected four bids from Championship new boys Bristol City for their star striker.

And while Martinez is uncertain over whether the Ashton Gate club will make a fifth attempt at landing Trundle, he insists he won't mind if they do.

It is believed Bristol City have so far fallen well short of Swansea's valuation of the Scouse talisman - their top-scorer for the last four seasons and a huge favourite with fans.

Evening Post

JULY-24

Murtagh aims to knuckle down at Wrexham

WREXHAM midfielder Conall Murtagh is planning to burn the midnight oil during the coming months, combining his university studies with the job of establishing himself as a Racecourse regular.

The 22-year-old Ulsterman has completed two years of a degree course in physiology at the University of Manchester and is confident he can complete the remaining few months of academic study without affecting his football.

“The third year course work is nowhere near as demanding as it was in the first two years and I should be able to get most of it done in the evenings,” he said.

“I’m sure I will be able to work it in around playing full-time football without too much difficulty.”

Murtagh, who was spotted by Wrexham when he was playing last season for Welsh Premiership outfit Rhyl, admitted he was surprised to have been offered a contract by Racecourse boss Brian Carey and said he was determined to make the most of what is a second crack at full-time football.

IcWales

JULY-23

Feeney ready to battle for a first team spot

WARREN Feeney is on a mission to prove he can be a smash hit with Cardiff City this season.

The Irishman was promoted to probable first choice alongside Steve MacLean following the £5m departure of Michael Chopra to Sunderland, but is now under pressure again after manager Dave Jones confirmed he will sign Robbie Fowler today.

Feeney, though, showed no sign of pressure in the pre-season match at League One club Yeovil Town.

The hard-running forward scored City’s first from a penalty, earned a second spot-kick with a well-timed run into the penalty area and set up another chance which Paul Parry whacked well wide.

Belfast-born Feeney, 26, whose granddad played for Swansea City, knows he is facing a major task to earn a place in the starting line-up with Fowler and Steve MacLean the likely attack partnership for the opening Championship clash at home to Stoke City.

IcWales

JULY-23

Garw manager departs club

"Garw announce today that their player/manager, Chris Wells, who has been a tremendous asset to the Club for the past two years, has resigned from his post with immediate effect.

“Garw Chairman Michael Lambert said "Chris has resigned in order to move abroad for work. He has been very successful here and of course we are very shocked and saddened at his departure, but he is a young man who needs to further his career.

He has found an excellent position in the Caribbean and so, regretfully, he must leave the Club. He leaves with the very best wishes and the sincere thanks of everyone connected with the Club.

"Garw have been forced to cancel several pre-season friendly fixtures while we re-organise, but the bulk of last years' squad have agreed to re-sign for the Club and two of our former players, Paul Samuel and Kevin Day, will manage the side in the interim until a manager can be appointed. We will be fielding a side for our first match at Aberaman on August 11th and are confident that this young side will give a good account of themselves, despite the obvious blow of Chris' departure.

Welshleague.org

JULY-23

Accrington sign striker McEvilly

The 25-year-old started his career at Burscough and moved to Rochdale in December 2001 for £20,000.

McEvilly originally joined Stanley from Rochdale in the summer of 2004 after a successful loan spell but moved to Wrexham a year later.

He has one cap at full international level with Northern Ireland.

BBC

JULY-23

Evans on the move again

Ricky Evans could be set to join his eighth Principality Welsh Premier club after appearing for NEWI Cefn Druids in Saturday's friendly at home to Cwmbran Town.

The 30-year-old former Oldham Athletic midfielder missed the second half of last season at Bangor City, after falling foul of the law once again, but Ancients' joint-manager Wayne Phillips refused to confirm whether Evans (pictured) would form a permanent part of his plans this season.

A Welsh semi-professional international and the brother of former TNS and now Wrexham and Wales defender Steve, Ricky joined TNS after three years at Boundary Park and has scored 29 goals from 212 Welsh Premier appearances.

His other domestic Welsh clubs have been Aberystwyth, Caersws, Flint Town United, Rhyl and Welshpool.

NLD

JULY-23

Striker waiting on Martinez to decide his fate

Senegal striker Ibrahima Thiam woke this morning hoping he has done enough to clinch a deal with Swansea City. The 25-year-old impressed during his week-long trial with the club in which he featured in the wins over Neath Athletic and Llanelli.

Thiam signed off with a goal in the victory over Llanelli at Stebonheath Park last Thursday and he hopes his efforts have been enough to sway boss Roberto Martinez's mind.

Thiam said: "I think it is a good team. We have very good staff and the players are very open.

"It is very important with players coming into the team to integrate well and be well received.

"Sure, there are other possibilities for me but I think why not be at Swansea."

Following his release from Belgian third division A side KFC Verbroedering Geel, the tall striker would certainly give Martinez some extra options with his height.

But Thiam, who holds a Belgian passport, was particularly impressive with the ball at his feet against Llanelli and showed good composure to neatly slot home the second goal in a 3-0 win.

Rather than reflect on his own glory though, Thiam chose to compliment the efforts of his team-mates.

Martinez, like he did against Neath the night before, used two entirely different teams for each half.

And it wasn't until the second period that Swansea grabbed hold of the contest.

"In the second half we played good football and as it was the first time with these players, it would be better if we knew each other more," said Thiam.

Evening Post

JULY-23

Fowler reveals why he joined City

Cardiff manager Dave Jones has dubbed the move as the biggest transfer coup in the club’s history.

And Fowler made it clear he is NOT here for the money and he is NOT here just to cosily wind down his playing days.

The Liverpool legend declared he had chosen Cardiff, ahead of the other teams chasing his signature because they offer the ambition and challenge he wants for the next part of his glittering football career.

“The most important thing for me is that when you look at Cardiff you see an ambitious club and a situation that is going to give me a real challenge,” Fowler said.

“I want to play regular football and achieve things, and Cardiff offer me that opportunity.

“During my time at Liverpool over the last season I wasn’t used as much as I would have liked, but hopefully I can get back to week-in, week-out games with Cardiff.

“As a striker, you need that in order to be properly sharp in front of goal.

“People have said I’m past my best and I’ve heard other sorts of comments like that.

“But they forget I’m still only 32... and that’s not so old. I have had injuries, but I’m in good shape again, I’m raring to go and I can’t wait to get playing for Cardiff.

“I’m really happy to be joining. I’m coming to hopefully help Cardiff with a real push at promotion next season.”

IcWales

JULY-23

Anderson is learning the ropes very fast

PACE ace Paul Anderson is one of the fastest men at Anfield – and he’s already hit the ground running at Swansea.

The wing whizz-kid has notched three goals in three games since arriving on loan from Liverpool.

And there’s surely more to come from the 18-year-old, who would finish only behind Wales captain Craig Bellamy in sprint races with the Reds.

“I was definitely up there with the fastest,” admitted on-loan Anderson, the speed merchant Martinez wanted for the new season. “Not many would beat me in a sprint; Craig Bellamy was probably faster and Mark Gonzales.

“When I was 13 I could do the 100m in 12 seconds – I’m not sure what time I could do now, but I know I’m faster.

“And I’ve seen the massive pitch at the Liberty, which will suit my speed greatly – but I’d like to think there’s more to my game than just pace.”

There is, or Liverpool wouldn’t have agreed a deal with Hull that could cost the Premiership side £1.5m. For that to happen, the Leicester-born rookie needs to break through into Rafa Benitez’s first team – hence the season-long stay in Swansea.

IcWales

JULY-23

Dragons fine tuning with tough Irish test

WREXHAM arrived in Northern Ireland yesterday to fine-tune their preparations for the new season that is now only three weeks away.

And assistant manager Steve Weaver revealed the Dragons’ six-day stay in the coastal resort of Newcastle – which takes in matches against club sides Cliftonville on Wednesday and Dungannon Swifts on Saturday – would see a significant change in the training regime.

“It’s going to be an intensive week for us here and we are hoping to get a lot of important work done,” he said, shortly after checking into the exclusive Slieve Donard resort and spa hotel, which will be the club’s base until the weekend.

“Up to now in the friendlies we have had, the lads have been playing off instinct and improvisation,” he said.

“But from here on in we will be working on team organisation and putting a great deal more emphasis on tactical sessions.

“The past few weeks have been all about fitness, so we are now moving on to the next phase because it’s fair to say that the teams which win leagues at our level are both very fit and well organised.”

Wrexham’s 20-strong squad includes Wales under-21 defender Simon Spender, who has been sidelined for a week with an ankle injury, while on trial striker Kaid Mohamed flew into Belfast from Cardiff last night after the weekend rain disrupted a planned train journey from his South Wales home on Saturday.

Daily Post

JULY-23

Olympic bombshell by Scotland

WALES are being dragged into a political minefield after Scotland yesterday opened the door to joining forces with England in a Great Britain football team at the 2012 London Olympics.

Wales and the Scots have always insisted they will not be part of the soccer side, even though senior political and Olympic figures have stated it must happen.

The Celtic nations argue that to preserve their independent status within Fifa, they cannot be dragged into a united British side with England.

But, in comments that will shock, and worry, the FA of Wales, new Scottish chief Gordon Smith said the door was still open for talks with England about a joint Great Britain XI.

With games to be played at the Millennium Stadium and Hampden Park, there is a growing school of thought in Scotland there needs to be Celtic representation in the British team.

The alternative, and the view Wales and Scotland have dogmatically taken so far, is that England must go it alone.

Smith’s new stance could not be more contradictory to that of David Taylor, his predecessor as Scottish FA general secretary, who always insisted Scotland and Wales could never be part of the football team at the Olympics.

IcWales

JULY-23

New kit brings County no luck

COUNTY lost their first pre-season friendly at the ground where they had never tasted success, but manager Peter Beadle was reasonably happy with the day’s work.

He employed 23 players in a somewhat surreal game with both sides using two sets of kits.

County looked comfortable in their new all-white change kit in the first half when most of their chances fell to trialist Andy Phillips, but the former Rotherham youth player was unable to convert any of them.

Newport were punished three minutes before the break when Sam Allison was left unmarked to net for the home side.

County, playing in an unfamiliar all-red kit after the break, had most of the possession but Chippenham scored their second with 11 minutes remaining when James Simpson turned a Tom Jacobs cross into his own net.

Craig Hughes grabbed the late consolation for County. Beadle said: “We are just finding our feet and all our new boys settled in nicely.”

IcWales

JULY-22

Bluebirds hail new boy Fowler

The move was more than three weeks in the making and will be completed when chairman Peter Ridsdale flies back from his Florida holiday to meet Fowler and sign the contract tomorrow. But Jones denied he had been worried he may lose out on the ex-England forward, who has scored 232 goals for both club and country in his 14-year career. Instead, he claimed the wait has been while free-agent Fowler held courtesy talks with other clubs before finally sitting down to thrash out the finer points over a Cardiff contract.

A clearly delighted Jones outlined the process which saw the incredible signing come to fruition yesterday, telling Wales on Sunday: “It is the biggest signing this club has ever made. It is a fantastic coup for the football club.

IcWales

JULY-22

Haverfordwest slip to shock defeat

Robbie Walters was the star of the Bryntirion show, grabbing two splendid goals – after 24 and 88 minutes – while Jonathan Cuss swooped for the other.

All Haverfordwest could manage was a penalty just before the break, awarded for hand ball and converted by Chris O’Sullivan. While Haverfordwest at times looked the far superior side they failed to take their chances while Bryntirion had only three serious shots at goal and scored from each of them.

IcWales

JULY-22

The Trapp door is open for Ken

IcWales

JULY-22

Rhyl magic puts town on the map

Daily Post

JULY-22

Welsh premier team friendlies

Cwmbran have brought in several new players and two of them, Moses Esingila and Christopher Omoata, netted yesterday. Tim Edwards got the Druids goal after 72 minutes.

NEWI Cefn Druids slipped to a home reverse at the hands of a club who will be playing below them in the soccer pyramid this coming season. They went down 2-1 to Cwmbran, relegated from the Welsh Premier League last season. Cwmbran have brought in several new players and two of them, Moses Esingila and Christopher Omoata, netted yesterday. Tim Edwards got the Druids goal after 72 minutes.

Llanelli were up against it in their match with Conference South side Havant and Waterlooville and went down 4-1. Jamie Slaber started the ball rolling for the visitors to Stebonheath Park scoring after 23 minutes and from the moment Sam Small, a summer recruit from Cwmbran, levelled matters in the 46th minute they went on the rampage. Richie Pacquette, Nick Hanidis and Mike McCarney all scored for the Hampshire outfit.

Cymru Alliance champions Llangefni, preparing for their first ever season in the Welsh Premier League, had an excellent run out against Unibond League team Poulton Victoria. The Anglesey outfit triumphed 1-0 thanks to a goal after 64 minutes by Chris Evans. “Our entire squad was there and every player came on at some time in the game. “It was a very useful match for us and we’re now really looking forward to the serious start of the season in a month’s time,” said a Llangefni spokesman.

IcWales

JULY-22

Cardiff to strong for Yeovil

Cardiff captain Darren Purse missed the game being caught up in floods in Gloucestershire on Friday night. Purse and team-mate Riccy Scimeca were forced to abandon the car they were travelling in after it became stuck in an overflowing ford. "It was a nightmare. I left training at one o'clock on Friday afternoon to come home but then we got stuck on the M5 at about six o'clock," Purse told BBC Wales Sport. "We decided to take a few back roads and Riccy's car ended up stuck in a ford in the middle of a little village in Gloucestershire. "I think the car is still floating in there at the moment! My wife came out in here 4x4 to pick us up but we had to wade through a waist high river to get to her. "I finally got into my house at two in the morning. It was quite a scary night."

Cardiff City: Oakes (Forde), Gunter (McNaughton), Capaldi, Rae, Johnson (Blake), Loovens, Sinclair (Parry), Feeney, MacLean (Byrne), McPhail (Ramsey), Whittingham (Ledley).
Subs Not Used: Green, Cooper.

BBC

JULY-22

Colwyn Bay provide good workout for Wrexham

Wrexham: Vinny Whelan, Jamie Price, John Hunt, Chris Marriott, Lee Jones, Paul Williams, Wes Baynes, Tom Matischok, Robin Kacaniklic, Josh Johnson, Jamie Reed.
Subs: Chris Maxwell, Kai Edwards, Mark Stewart, Mathew Head, Jack Jones.

BBC

JULY-22

Trundle offers ‘way off the mark’

IcWales

JULY-22

Moran positive he is back on the right track

IcWales

JULY-22

Sinclair aims to fly high with Bluebirds

IcWales

JULY-21

City on brink of landing ex-England pair

CARDIFF CITY are on the brink of landing the sensational double capture of ex-England strikers Robbie Fowler and Francis Jeffers.

The Western Mail understands the Bluebirds have already agreed terms with Blackburn on a £1m swoop for 26-year-old Jeffers.

The former Everton and Arsenal frontman, who scored in his only game for England, is set to be unveiled by Cardiff boss Dave Jones on Wednesday.

Negotiations with former Liverpool legend Fowler are also at a highly advanced stage.

Sources close to the Anfield legend say he has decided to come to Cardiff and, provided no other offers come in over the next four days, the 32-year-old is also expected to put pen to paper on a contract this week.

If the Bluebirds, as expected, pull it off, the double deal will be the biggest transfer coup in the club’s recent history.

Horseracing fanatics Fowler and Jeffers are both due in South Wales tonight, where they are expected to visit the stables of top Welsh trainer Evan Williams.

The move for Jeffers appears definite after Cardiff fixed a fee with Blackburn and the player agreed personal terms.

Cardiff’s sudden swoop may explain why Jeffers’ planned move to Ipswich, where he spent two months on loan last season, suddenly collapsed.

icwales

JULY-21

Martinez's dream of the Premiership

ROBERTO MARTINEZ last night spelled out his Premiership dream for Swansea City and his determination to bring the stylish football and success to the Liberty Stadium that will do the club proud.

Martinez has targeted a genuine push for promotion as the No 1 aim in his first full season in charge of the Swans.

But Martinez, refreshed from a summer break and full of confidence after summer success in the transfer market, believes that even the Championship is not enough for the Swans.

In a wide-ranging interview with the Western Mail, Martinez outlined:

HIS determination to take the Swans not only to promotion this year, but also into the dizzy heights of the Premiership;

THE special rapport he has with the fans who he believes deserve a team higher up in the English football system;

HOW he will insist his team plays the famous old Swansea way, signalling the end of Kenny Jackett’s “route one” methods;

HIS pride in following in footsteps of Swans managerial legend John Toshack and how he won’t hesitate to ask his friend for advice;

WHY he believes his squad has the perfect blend of skill, steel, pace and goal-getting after the arrival of eight new players.

But Martinez is oozing with confidence about the squad he has put together and his enthusiasm for the task ahead is evident from the moment he starts talking.

And No 1 on the agenda, as far as Martinez is concerned, is delivering success to the fans he has always had a special rapport with.

icwales

JULY-21

Polish Striker arrives at Stebo

20 year old Polish striker, Piotrek Urban has arrived for a weeks' trial with the Reds. 

Piotrek has been playing in Spain with Atletico Osasuna B team and arrives in Wales after Reds Chairman, Nitin Parekh, made the arrangements through his Spanish business contacts. 

The player is expected to go straight into the Reds starting line up against Havant & Waterlooville as Rhys Griffiths is best man at a wedding.

llanelliafc.org

JULY-21

Rhyl confident of Uefa progress

"Given such limited preparation it was a great performance, commitment, shape and attitude were superb," said Hulse.

"It'll be harder out there, but we'll be up for it and I'm sure we can get a goal, that'd make it hard for them."

The return leg will be on 2 August, with the draw for the second round of the Cup to be made the next day.

Haka have been champions of Finland nine times, while the Lilywhites will be looking to repeat their exploits of two seasons ago.

In 2005 they joined Barry Town, Carmarthen Town and Llanelli as the only Welsh Premier League clubs to progress through the first round of a European competition.

Following his club's success, Hulse was reluctant to join the clamour to make the Welsh Premier a summer league.

"I'm perhaps a bit old fashioned, but I just can't see how a summer league would work here," Hulse told BBC Sport Wales.

"Welsh football would have to change completely. A summer league works in Ireland, but they have full-time, professional clubs."

BBC

JULY-21

Win Old Gold some respect - Brace

"I can't deny that SK Brann were the better team, but sloppy defending made the result so bad," he said after the 8-0 first-round, first-leg home loss.

"We have to work on our game plan to make the 2 August return fixture in Norway less embarrassing.

"Brann took the game to a level we have not been at. It was a massive learning curve - and we learnt the hard way."

The Richmond Park defeat equalled the worst-ever performance by a Welsh side in Europe.

"It would be easy for me to use the excuse that the Welsh Premier should be a summer league," Brace told BBC Sport Wales.

"With more games you would be better prepared and that would have to help our cause.

"But I don't want to get into that argument at this time. Thursday was just not a good night for us."

BBC

JULY-21

Ramsey withdrawn from Wales duty

Bluebirds manager Dave Jones wants to midfielder Ramsey to remain with the club to prepare for the opening game of the season against Stoke on 11 August.

Ramsey, the youngest player to play for the Bluebirds, has been replaced by Swindon Town's Tom Evans.

Wales will play Chile and Israel in the Elite section at the youth tournament.

The team will the most points from the two group games will qualify for the final to face either Denmark, Turkey or Northern Ireland.

BBC

JULY-21

Stones has no future with Crewe

Crewe have cleared the decks of their trialists as they await the arrival of ex-Coventry City striker Patrick Suffo.

Former Welsh Premier player Greg Stones could spark interest with Cheltenham and Wrexham now he has been told his spell at the Alex is over.

The former Rhyl and TNS player was deployed in a central midfield role for the whole of Wednesday night's 2-1 victory at Alsager.

"Greg did all right with us, but in the end we decided not to keep him. However, he has got interest from Wrexham, Yeovil and Cheltenham, which is promising for him."

The Sentinel

JULY-21

Scimeca targets September return

RICCY Scimeca has spoken about the frustration of having to miss the early part of the coming season with stomach and groin injuries.

The combative midfielder has undergone two operations to repair a tear to the wall of his stomach and also had a tendon in his groin lengthened.

It’s meant that Scimeca has done quite a bit of work on the training bike rather than the field this pre-season.

But a Bluebirds team without a fit Scimeca in the engine room simply did not have the same impact at the tail end of the last campaign.

And it’s been no surprise to hear manager Dave Jones mention the player several times when looking ahead, despite the arrival of Scotsman Gavin Rae and the emergence of youngsters like Aaron Ramsey and Darcy Blake.

“It’s very frustrating not to be out there with the rest of the squad preparing for a new and fresh challenge, but something had to be done,” said Scimeca.

“It seems at this stage I’ll miss three or four, maybe five games.

icwales

JULY-21

I don’t want to break record for wrong reasons

MARK AIZLEWOOD says “getting back to basics” will be the key factor in keeping his battered Carmarthen troops out of the European record books.

Carmarthen face a frightening task going into their first qualifying round return leg with SK Brann in Bergen on Thursday having crumbled 8-0 48 hours ago – a drubbing that equalled the worst humiliation for a Welsh club in Europe.

Barry Town were dismantled by Dynamo Kiev and Porto in the Champions League during 1998 and 2001 and Aizlewood is well aware Chelsea once destroyed Luxembourg minnows Jeunesse Hautcharage 21-0 on aggregate in the Cup Winners’ Cup 36 years ago this September.

That was also the scoreline Feyenoord beat Luxembourg’s US Rumelange 12 months later in the Uefa Cup and ex-Wales star Aizlewood said, “I don’t want to be part of a setup that enters the European football record books for all the wrong reasons.

“There were absolutely no excuses for what happened at Richmond Park. People will go banging on about how the Welsh Premiership should be played throughout the summer... they might also refer to Brann having a number of internationals in their squad.

“But how can you say that the Norwegian league compares to Serie A and Spain’s Primera? We’ve had a hammering from opponents who are hardly amongst the best in European club soccer. Brann are a decent side but their players are not amongst the top professionals. Some of my lads have ambitions of turning pro, they honestly believe they are good enough. Well, maybe this will be a wake-up call to them – it’ll show them how far short they are.

“We simply didn’t do the basics correctly and that just emphasised the gulf between us and them. We didn’t perform and would have probably lost 3-0 to an ordinary Welsh Premiership team on the day.

“When you don’t show commitment or determination you are in line for a real mauling from opponents who are better technically than you. Frankly, the score is going to be anything from eight to 18-0!”

icwales

JULY-21

Get tough call from Purse

CARDIFF CITY captain Darren Purse leads his troops into their latest pre-season clash at Yeovil today with the warning, “Toughen up or we ain’t going up!”

The no-nonsense centre-half, who recently inked a new deal to keep him at Ninian Park for two more years, was not in the mood to pull punches when he accused his Bluebirds side of playing it too pretty last campaign.

After a flamboyant start, which saw City top the Championship up until November, boss Dave Jones witnessed his side limp home to an ultimately disappointing 13th-place finish.

Now 30-year-old Purse insists Cardiff are going to have to “get dirty” if they are going to be in the promotion shake-up this term.

“I think we need to develop a bit of a ruthless streak and learn to grind out results when we have to,” said Purse.

“Last year Birmingham won something like 12 or 15 games 1-0 because they scored and killed the game off. That is what we need to learn to do. We need to be a dirty side sometimes. I don’t mean violent or cheating, but just not always pretty.”

In the close season 30-year-old Purse saw his name linked with a move away from Ninian Park and admitted he was flattered by all the attention.

Despite talk of a move to the Premiership with Wigan, Purse maintains he never wanted to leave Wales and believes he can finally achieve his dream of top-flight football with Cardiff.

icwales

JULY-20

Carmarthen absolutely hammered by Brann

A HAT-TRICK inside 37 first-half minutes from Robbie Winter and a Thorstein Helstad double before the break emphasised the gulf between the Welsh Premier league and Norway’s top division in this one-sided Uefa Cup round-one clash last night.

Sweeper Kristjan Orn Sigurdsson, ex-Rosenburg playmaker Jan Gunnar Solli and substitute Armann Smari Bjornsson also piled on the misery late on, with Town plunging into deeper despair when left-back Neil Smothers was dismissed for a second yellow card four minutes from the end.

Carmarthen, who came into this tournament as Welsh Cup winners, had prepared meticulously for this tie but paid the penalty for defensive frailties – rendering the return in Bergen on Thursday week academic.

Only the energetic performance of goalkeeper Neil Thomas prevented an even greater European embarrassment, which was still the biggest in the West Walian club’s history.

A stomach bug ruled out former Leeds and Norwegian star Eirik Bakke and there was no spot for new £200,000 Swedish striker Joakin Sjohage, but the Norwegians included nine full internationals at the start – another five amongst the six substitutes.

icwales

JULY-20

Rhyl on target against the Finns

RHYL will look to finish off the Finns from FK Haka in a fortnight to make Uefa Cup first-round progress for the second time in three years.

The Lilywhites had to come from behind at Belle Vue in front of almost 1,800 fans with goals from Andy Moran, Lee Hunt and Craig Garside.

After a cagey opening 15 minutes, the visitors took the lead when Rhyl were caught on the break by Mikko Manninen, who set up Toni Lehtinen with a simple tap-in.

Haka continued to be on top until Rhyl suddenly levelled through Moran, who fired home following a long throw-in by Mark Connolly.

And just 11 minutes later, Moran’s strike partner Hunt put Rhyl ahead after Russian goalkeeper Alexander Dubnya could only parry a James Kelly free-kick.

Within three minutes of the start of the second period, Rhyl scored again through Garside following good approach work by Stuart Graves, Hunt and Moran.

Both sides missed further chances before Haka substitute Jarno Mattila was sent off in the final minutes for crudely bringing down James Brewerton.

icwales

JULY-20

Swans on target against Llanelli

LEE TRUNDLE put any transfer speculation to one side when he led out Swansea City for their second friendly in as many days as the Swans beat Welsh Premier league side Llanelli 3-0 at Stebonheath Park.

The skilful striker was captain for the first half and, despite failing to score, the 30-year-old showed plenty of the class Swans fans have come to love in the last four years.

Trundle played a part in most of the Swans attacking moves but his mazy runs proved fruitless on a number of occasions.

The game itself was much tougher for the Swans than their previous friendly against Neath on Wednesday and the home side were dominant for long periods of the first half. But, having targeted this week’s games as a time for working on fitness, Roberto Martinez will have been pleased to see Swans veteran Kristian O’Leary making a solid return from injury.

O’Leary was busy around the pitch and his clinical volley after 40 minutes saw the Swans going in 1-0 up at half time.

The second half saw a host of changes and trialists Jamie Price and Ibrahima Thiam were given another chance to impress Martinez. The Senegalese striker did his chances of earning a permanent deal no harm with some intelligent touches and a well-taken goal after 80 minutes.

Having been put through by a beautiful ball from Guillem Buaza, the African slipped the ball through the keeper’s legs for his first Swans goal.

The team as a whole was more cohesive in the second half and Llanelli were limited to a handful of chances as Swansea pushed forward. The Swans went 3-0 up in the final minute of the game when Andy Robinson drilled home a penalty after he was taken down inside the box.

The Swans will now return to a week’s training before playing Port Talbot on July 25 in their last game before the club starts its pre-season tour of Holland three days later.

icwales

JULY-20

More players leaving troubled Maesteg

More Maesteg Park players – have committed to other Welsh League clubs.

Striker Walters – Maesteg's leading scorer over the past three seasons – has signed for Bryntirion Athletic.

During his three seasons at Tudor Park, Walters netted 80 goals and he is generally regarded as one of the hottest striking properties on the top-flight scene.

The arrival of Walters at Bryntirion Park should provide the Bridgend side with extra bite in attack, especially as Jonathan Cuss has decided to stay put.

Bryntirion are hoping to bring in another ex-Maesteg Park man, Paul Jones, but that issue is still in the melting pot.

icwales

JULY-20

Fowler decision not about money - agent

ROBBIE FOWLER does not want to become another David Beckham by going to a club and earning loads more money than his team-mates.

The Liverpool legend’s advisor George Scott said it was a situation the 32-year-old wished to avoid for fear of causing disharmony within the dressing room.

Fowler is currently on holiday in Portugal mulling over which club to join and is believed to have eight serious offers in front of him, including one from Cardiff City.

The Bluebirds are offering a wage packet of around £10,000 per week to Fowler with generous appearance and goal bonuses, along with an £800,000 one-off payment if they win promotion to the Premiership.

City have looked into gaining sponsorship from businesses to help fund the deal, but Scott said this was also a scenario that did not appeal to his client.

While Cardiff wait to see if they have landed Fowler, chairman Peter Ridsdale said the club was not allowing the grass to grow under its feet in the transfer market.

The Bluebirds have contacted seven players within the last 24 hours with a view to getting things moving ahead of the new season starting on August 11.

icwales

JULY-20

Trundle’s going nowhere – Martinez

ROBERTO MARTINEZ last night issued a firm “hands-off” warning to Bristol City over Lee Trundle after the Championship newcomers slapped in an £800,000 bid for the Swansea City hitman.

The West Country side have reportedly made a fourth attempt to land the 30-year-old fans’ favourite, who has hit 85 goals in 163 games for the Swans.

The money Bristol City have dangled in front of the Swans is bound to have tested the resolve of the board. But the Swans insist their No 1 star is going nowhere and fully expect to see him line up in their team when the 2007-08 season kicks off next month.

Swans boss Martinez believes Trundle’s special bond with the club, where he has iconic status amongst the fans, will persuade him to remain in Wales.

“Lee Trundle is Swansea City through and through,” said Martinez.

“Especially in respect of what he has done in the past and I expect him to increase that over the next few seasons.

“I’m just looking for Trunds to enjoy his football.”

When asked if he wanted Trundle to remain, Martinez replied, “Yes, of course. What he has done at this football club is part of Swansea City and it is as simple as that.”

The Spaniard admitted he was flattered a club from a higher division was interested in a member of his squad and admitted he actually enjoyed the speculation.

Martinez said, “I’m just proud when other managers are interested in any of my players and I think that’s the way to look at it.

icwales

JULY-20

McEvilly departs the Racecourse

McEvilly, who saw a move to Bradford fall through last summer after failing a medical, has been told he does not feature in the club's future plans.

The remaining year on the 25-year-old's contract has been cancelled by agreement and he is now a free agent.

"We would like to thank Lee for his efforts and wish him well in his future career," reads a statement on the Wrexham official club website.

BBC

JULY-20

Cup hero Steve calls it a day

Flintshire Standard

JULY-19

Pontypridd's manager looks to new season

THERE was an encouraging start for Pontypridd Town manager Mal Camilleri when 23 players attended the club’s first full pre-season training session.

The turnout meant a full practice match could be held after some fitness work.

Camilleri said: “I was delighted with the turnout, particularly as a lot of the players aren’t known to me yet, and I was able to see what they are like with a ball at their feet.

“I am also expecting more prospective players to be arriving over the next few weeks and I need to see them in action.

“Consequently, I am pleased that at short notice we have been able to arrange a full programme of friendlies against teams of differing styles and standard.

“I have been impressed by several triallists already and I will be starting to sign players next week.”

Just weeks after Dekor axed their £30,000-a-year sponsorship deal, spokesman Clive Harry said there is now a positive feeling at the club.

He said: “After the worrying situation we faced a short while ago, it’s nice to be able to look optimistically to the future, particularly after some people were predicting that the club would go out of existence before the season starts.

icwales

JULY-19

Bristol City move in for Trundle

Bristol City are hoping to land Lee Trundle at the fourth and final attempt after admitting they have talked to Swansea City about their star striker. The Coca-Cola Championship club are desperate to find a hitman to fill the boots of injured striker Steve Brooker and feel Trundle fits the bill.

But City, who have made three unsuccessful attempts for Trundle, are understood to be making their final bid for the Scouser.

With Booker injured and Phil Jevons reportedly on the way out of Ashton Gate, City would have only Enoch Showumni as their only attacking option.

Evening Post

JULY-19

Fan-tastic crowd can inspire Rhyl win

RHYL boss John Hulse has called on the club’s supporters to inspire his side to a famous Uefa Cup victory against FC Haka tonight.

The Lilywhites take on the experienced Finnish outfit having triumphed just once in four years of continental competition.

But Hulse believes the intimidating atmosphere generated by the Belle Vue crowd, which swells to over 2,000 on European nights, can help match the feat of 2005, when they beat Lithuanian outfit FK Atlantas 2-1 at home.

“Our fans are fantastic and ever since I have been at the club they have supported us immensely,” said the manager.

“They are very vocal, as other teams in our league would be able to tell you.

“European nights are special here, the crowd are fantastic. They get right behind me and the team and they can make a big difference on Thursday night.

“We are looking at getting at around 2,000 fans and upwards in and it is a tight ground, so the atmosphere will be fantastic.

“Haka certainly won’t like it.”

While Hulse, who has announced his attention to attack the Finns, is eager to secure a first-leg advantage ahead of the trip to Valkeakoski in two weeks time, he is mindful of gifting Haka an away goal.

“We have to get a result to give us a realistic chance for going over there,” said the boss. “Our priority is to keep a clean sheet and avoid giving them an away goal, and hopefully to pick up a goal or two.”

Ben Thornley

JULY-19

McKenna targets Euro progress

NEW SAINTS boss Ken McKenna insists the Welsh club are capable of making inroads in the Champions League.

The Powys side hold a slender 3-2 first leg lead against FK Ventspil – the Latvian champions whom Newcastle United only beat 1-0 on aggregate in the UEFA Cup last season – at the halfway stage of their preliminary round tie.

And, with Austrian outfit FC Red Bull Salzburg awaiting the winners, McKenna believes it is only a matter of time before the Saints start progressing in Europe.

“This club continues to go in the right direction,” said McKenna after Tuesday’s triumph secured a narrow advantage for next week’s second leg in Latvia.

“We’re hoping to have the new football ground built in Oswestry soon and Mike Harris, the TNS managing director, is very pro-Welsh Premier League, he is not at all interested in going into the English system.

“He loves the league, loves TNS and wants us to get even better.

“If we get this new ground, then there’s no reason why we can’t continue to be a major force in Wales – and with that hopefully we can get through a couple of rounds in the Champions League.”

icwales

JULY-19

Swans hit goal trail at Neath

Duffy, a £200,000 signing from Hull City, scored twice after replacing Lee Trundle at half-time, who had doubled Swansea's lead after 30 minutes.

Kevin Austin had struck first on two minutes while loan signing Anderson wrapped up the scoring late on.

Trialists Ibrahima Thiam and Jamie Price came on for the second half.

New signings Angel Rangel, Guillem Buaza, Matthew Collins, Ferrie Bodde and Dorus de Vries also made appearances in Swansea's first pre-season game on home soil this summer.

Despite looking sharp in front of goal, Swansea's defence was often less than convincing, and it was a mistake by centre back Garry Monk that allowed Andy Hamlett to score for Neath on 78 minutes.

Swansea face another Welsh Premier side on Thursday when they take on Llanelli at Stebonheath Park.

Neath: Morris, Timothy, Parry, Showdry, Crowning, D'Auria, Evans, Pridham, French, Hill (capt), Price.

Swansea (first half): Gueret, Rangel, Painter, Graves, Austin, Collins, Pratley, Robinson, Britton, Buaza, Trundle (capt).

Swansea (second half): De Vries, Price, Monk (capt), Morgan, Tate, MacDonald, Bodde, Craney, Anderson, Duffy, Thiam.

BBC

JULY-19

Wrexham hit by Evans injury blow

The Wales defender suffered suspected ligament damage after being caught from behind, and will miss next week's pre-season tour to Northern Ireland.

Before the injury, Evans had scored the Dragons' third goal, following Marc Williams' double just before the break.

Triallist Robin Kacaniklic and Mark Jones were also on target for Wrexham.

New signing Marc Lloyd Williams scored twice in four minutes for Newtown to bring them back to within a goal at 4-3 down, Craig Moses having hit the first to cut deficit to 3-1 after 65 minutes.

Newtown: Dave Jones (Danny Jones 56), Craig Williams (Dan March 75), Damien Daniels (Gareth Watkins 46), Hugh Clarke (Gary Price 43), Danny Jellicoe, Richard Williams-Cooke (Dan Griffiths 75), Sean Butler (Rob Dean 46), Glenn Tolley (Tom Griffin 56), Craig Moses, Marc Lloyd Williams, Adam Worton (Kevin Scott 46).

Wrexham: Anthony Williams, Gareth Evans, Mike Williams (Lee Jones 73), Chris Marriott, Steve Evans (Levi Mackin 89), Danny Williams (Wes Baynes 76), Josh Johnson, Mark Jones, Chris Llewellyn (Jamie Reed 69), Marc Williams, Matty Done (Robin Kacaniklic 60).
Sub Not Used: Michael Jones.

BBC

JULY-19

Reject Corbisiero has point to prove

Ex-swansea City midfielder Antonio Corbisiero is relishing tonight's friendly with his former club as Roberto Martinez's side take on Llanelli (7.30).The clash at Stebonheath Park sees Corbisiero meeting his former club for the first time since being released two years ago by then boss Kenny Jackett.

The 22-year-old Englishman is now part of Peter Nicholas's Reds squad that is about to launch a serious assault on the Welsh Premier League title.

The Swans have promised to take a first-team squad to Stebo and are expected to field all of their summer signings, although striker Jason Scotland is ruled out through injury.

Chris Barney

JULY-19

Brace plotting to polish off Brann

THE gulf between Carmarthen Town and UEFA Cup opponents SK Brann tonight (7pm) will be highlighted by the sight of former Leeds United midfielder Eirik Bakke in the Norwegians’ ranks.

But, against the Bergen-based club which attracted an average 17,000 spectators to their home games last season, Carmarthen plan to overcome the loss of manager, two key defenders and leading goalscorer in recent weeks.

And in newly-appointed player-boss Deryn Brace, the ‘Old Gold’ are confident they have the man who can help clinch a positive result to take into the return leg on July 26.

After dispensing with the services of successful manager Mark Jones just a few weeks ago, Carmarthen are now without injured defender Mark Dodds, who is no slouch as a striker as well.

To make matters worse, main marksman Kaid Mohamed is currently on trial at Wrexham and former Cardiff and Swansea defender Terry Evans has joined Haverfordwest County.

“Of course we’d like to have the trio available,” said Brace, who previously guided Haverfordwest into Europe.

“It’s going to be difficult to replace them off the field every bit as much as on the field because they are such strong characters.

“However, we’ve done well without them so far in our warm-up games and I’m positive the new players will do well.”

Brace has returned to Haverfordwest to snap up defender Richard Hughes, attacking midfielder Richie Adams and striker Tim Hicks. Defenders Neil Smothers and Gareth Warton have also rejoined to start second spells at Richmond Park.

“We knew there was no easy draw for us, but it’s exciting and we're certainly up for challenge,” added Brace. “Home advantage for the first game is a big boost and I’m sure we’ll get a full house.”

icwales

JULY-19

City are moving forward says Purse

CARDIFF City captain Darren Purse today insisted the club are “better equipped than ever” to mount a promotion challenge.

In a rallying call to supporters dejected about the £5m sale of striker Michael Chopra, the centre-half claimed the squad are capable of an assault on top flight status.

And he called on the doubters to remember how far City have come since Dave Jones took over two years ago.

“Look at the players we have,” said Purse in a passionate appraisal of the Bluebirds’ situation.

“There is no comparison with what it was like two years ago when I turned up at Accrington Stanley to watch a pre-season game.

“If you had suggested back then Cardiff would be accepting £5m for a player people would have laughed.

“The way the club has changed is fantastic – and we are moving forward towards where we want to be.

“And we all believe we can push on and finish the job we started two years ago and stepped up in 2006-7.”

And Purse has not let go of the dream that persuaded him to join City in the first place.

“I still have that dream of leading the team out at a new stadium at the top level,” he added.

icwales

JULY-18

Neath Athletic to play Swans tonight

NEATH Athletic play host to Swansea City tonight (Wednesday) in the visitor’s first pre-season friendly in Wales.

A full first team squad – including seven new signings – will join Cyril the Swan at Llandarcy Park, when he will be meeting Neath’s new mascot for the first time.

Neath’s Athletic new signings are Sean Cronin (Bryntirion Athletic), Brian Showdery (Newtown), Mike Jones (Pontypridd Town), Stephen Parry (Afan Lido), Richard French (Port Talbot Town), Andy Hammett (Taffs Well) and Dale Evans (Croesyceiliog).

Athletic are expecting a bumper crowd and plenty of entertainment is planned, including a beer tent and half-time penalty competition.

icwales

JULY-18

Swans to trial Senegalese striker

Senegal-born striker Ibrahima Thiam, 25, has joined the Swans on trial after being released by Belgian second division side KFC Verbroedering Geel.

Thiam will either play against Neath or in Thursday's friendly with Llanelli.

"Ibrahima was recommended to us by our Belgian scout and will be spending a few days on trial here," said Martinez.

BBC

JULY-18

McKenna rueful despite Saints win

"It was a very frustrating evening in many respects," said McKenna after the 3-2 win in the first qualifying round.

"We've managed to break our duck and get a win in Europe, but we've conceded two terrible goals and really it was a tie we should have won comfortably.

"It's little mistakes that have cost us and that's what disappointed me."

Not only was it their first victory in a European competition, but it also meant the Saints became only the third Welsh club to win a match in the Champions League.

McKenna has long argued the Welsh Premier season should start in March to give sides in Europe more hope of progressing and he said the outcome would have been entirely different had his players been match fit.

"We've done as much homework on them as we can. I've been out to watch them. We've worked hard physically and tactically. We prepared the best we could for the game - we couldn't have done any more.

"But we're not match sharp - they are. They've played 17 games already. Had it been the other way around, the tie would have been put to bed in the first leg.

"I'm pleased for the players they got the win, but I'm disappointed that they're not going away with the security of a bigger win."

BBC

JULY-18

McKenna rueful despite Saints win

"It was a very frustrating evening in many respects," said McKenna after the 3-2 win in the first qualifying round.

"We've managed to break our duck and get a win in Europe, but we've conceded two terrible goals and really it was a tie we should have won comfortably.

"It's little mistakes that have cost us and that's what disappointed me."

Not only was it their first victory in a European competition, but it also meant the Saints became only the third Welsh club to win a match in the Champions League.

McKenna has long argued the Welsh Premier season should start in March to give sides in Europe more hope of progressing and he said the outcome would have been entirely different had his players been match fit.

"We've done as much homework on them as we can. I've been out to watch them. We've worked hard physically and tactically. We prepared the best we could for the game - we couldn't have done any more.

"But we're not match sharp - they are. They've played 17 games already. Had it been the other way around, the tie would have been put to bed in the first leg.

"I'm pleased for the players they got the win, but I'm disappointed that they're not going away with the security of a bigger win."

BBC

JULY-18

Carmarthen defender joins Haverfordwest

Experienced defender Terry Evans has left Carmarthen Town to join local rivals Haverfordwest County.

Evans a full time professional with Barry Town during their height of success, 31 year-old Evans made 164 appearances for the Barry Town, starting his career at Cardiff City, where he made 14 Football League starts and also won three Welsh Under 21 caps.

Evans was given a chance to resurrect his Football League career with Swansea City and spent two seasons at with them before moving to Newport County.

He joined Carmarthen last summer and made another 30 Welsh Premier appearances for the club, scoring twice.

Evans is another signing to add to County's squad strengthening during the close season, as they aim for a top half place in the league.

Tony

JULY-18

Fowler plays waiting game

CARDIFF CITY’S hopes of signing Robbie Fowler have received a huge setback after the Liverpool goal ace decided to hold out on making a decision about his future in the hope of receiving more offers.

Fowler is on holiday in Portugal mulling over the eight offers he currently has on the table.
Amongst those are bids from the Bluebirds, Leicester, Sydney FC, where Fowler recently returned from a visit, and Scottish giants Rangers.
Cardiff are still optimistic about their chances of landing their man and an insider told the Western Mail last night, “We’re in with as good a chance as anyone else at this stage.”
But Fowler’s advisor George Scott said the player had until the transfer window closes at the end of next month to weigh up his options ... and might well take that amount of time before committing himself.
“To be honest, Robbie is enjoying the little bit of freedom he’s got at the moment,” said Scott.
“He is not in a mood to be rushed. He is considering eight offers at the moment, but the phone is always ringing and there is plenty of interest.
“We’ve been forced to say thanks, but no thanks to a few of them.
“I wouldn’t want to put the offers in any kind of order yet. Robbie is his own man, he will make up his mind about what is right for him and especially what’s right for his family.
“Robbie’s got six weeks really and there is no saying he won’t take that time before putting pen to paper and finally decide where he’s going.
“As I say, offers are coming in all the time and there is the option there to wait until more clubs come in and decide then.
“Sydney is still in there, we felt we should go out there at least. They had come to Liverpool and we thought it polite to take up their offer to go there.
“Cardiff’s bid is getting the same serious consideration as the others. We know the chairman, Peter Ridsdale, is an ambitious man. I know him and he’s always impressed me as a person, a businessman and just a thorough football man at heart.”

icWales

JULY-18

Scotland blow for Swans

SWANSEA CITY will welcome back a host of players from injury for this week’s two pre-season friendlies on Welsh soil, only to find their new striker consigned to the sidelines.

The Swans make the short trips to Neath tonight and Llanelli tomorrow without Jason Scotland (below), who is ruled out with a calf strain.

The Trinidad and Tobago international picked up the injury during the Swans trip to Sweden last week.

But, despite missing the upcoming games, Scotland shouldn’t be ruled out for long.

“It’s only a slight strain, nothing serious,” Swans physio Richie Evans told the club’s official website.

“He’ll have some more treatment over the next few days and should be back in training next week.”

Midfielder Tom Butler is also a serious doubt this week after picking up a hamstring strain in Sweden.

But Swans boss Roberto Martinez’s frustration at being unable to run the rule over Scotland and Butler will be tempered slightly by the return to contention of a clutch of players who missed out on action in Sweden.

icWales

JULY-18

Latest on Carmarthen v FK Brann Bergen

"We will know a lot of their names but they won't know much about us," he said ahead of the Uefa Cup first round, first leg match at Richmond Park.

Brace has lost Mark Dodds to Newport County, while top-scorer Kaid Mohamed is on trial at Wrexham.

Tim Hicks has been brought in from Haverfordwest to replace Mohamed.

Ex-Blackburn Rovers defender Martin Andresen and former Leeds midfielder Erik Bakke are Brann's star players, while former Aberdeen and Dundee United striker Robbie Winters is also on their books.

The return leg in Norway will be played on 2 August, with the second-round draw to be made the following day.

Carmarthen lost heavily to Finland's Tampere United in the first round of the Intertoto Cup last year.

But two seasons ago they joined Rhyl and Barry Town as the only Welsh Premier League clubs to have progressed through the first round of a European competition.

BBC

JULY-18

Latest on Rhyl FC v FC Haka Valkeakoski

"We have built up two quality sides with players who are stronger and fitter than any I have known before," said Hulse.

Nine-times Finnish champions Haka will be the Belle Vue visitors, with the return in Finland on 2 August.

The second-round draw is due to be made on 3 August.

BBC

JULY-18

Summons takes over

ROB SUMMONS has become the new chairman of Haverfordwest County – 18 months after he first got involved with the Bridge Meadow club, writes Chris Smart.

Summons is a former chairman of Haverfordwest cricket club and originally went to the Welsh Premier League side to help get the ground into top condition.

It was soon evident, however, that it was more than the ground that needed attention as, despite some great work by people like Winston Grifffiths and Barry Vaughan, the club was in dire straits in more ways than one.

Summons therefore became fully involved and encouraged some able local businessmen to show an interest.

Since then it has been an uphill battle, but gradually there is light appearing at the end of the tunnel.

Most of the club’s debts have been eliminated and the Bluebirds have remained in the top 10 of the Premier League.

icWales

JULY-18

Proctor at the double but Burnley take the honours

Gray followed up a Kyle Lafferty shot for the opener and added his second from short range on 40 minutes.

Mike Proctor reduced the deficit after the break, then equalised from the spot after Eifion Williams won a penalty.

But Joey Gudjonsson immediately fired in a vicious shot, before Ade Akinbiyi and Rodriguez rounded off the victory.

Wrexham: Michael Jones, Ryan Valentine, Shaun Pejic, Richard Hope, Neil Taylor (Mike Williams 57), Mike Carvill (Matty Done 57), Levi Mackin, Conall Murtagh (Mark Jones 60), Eifion Williams (Chris Llewellyn 75), Kaid Mohammed (Marc Williams 60), Michael Proctor.
Subs: Anthony Williams, Gareth Evans.

BBC

JULY-17

New Saints record win at 15th attempt

An injury-time goal from Barry Hogan gave The New Saints their first Champions League win in 15 attempts.

Mike Wilde gave the Saints the lead at Newtown's Latham Park with a diving header, before Vits Rimkus equalised.

Phil Baker restored the advantage in the second half, but striker Rimkus got his second in the 89th minute.

Hogan dramatically fired in from 10 yards deep into injury time to give the Saints hope for the 25 July second leg in Ventspils, on the Baltic shore.

BBC

JULY-17

Blackman makes swift Llanelli exit

NLD

JULY-17

MK Dons looking at County's Prosser

The 20-year-old forward, who was loaned out to Cwmbran Town, Taunton and Bath City last season, has been in training with Paul Ince's side and was one of many trialists to feature in their 0-0 draw with Crawley at the weekend.

Prosser also travelled with the Dons squad on their pre-season tour of Portugal and, though he is not under contract at County, he may upset Beadle.

It had been agreed that the front-runner would spend the season at Yate Town in the British Gas Business League Premier Division to prepare him for a bid to break into the first team.

Beadle said: "I've heard the rumour that he has gone to MK Dons for a trial but if he has he hasn't told me and Yate haven't rung me up and said he has missed training.

"Obviously he's not under contract with us but it would still be disappointing that he hasn't told me - we certainly wouldn't stand in the way of such an opportunity for a player but the courtesy phone call is a big part of it.

"He's a good lad but maybe he has had his head turned by somebody. We feel it would be in his best interests for him to go to Yate for a season.

"We agreed that since he is only 20 and needs to develop his game, the best way for him to do that is by getting regular first team football for a season.

"He would find it hard to compete with the other strikers here but I have told him he is still very much part of our plans and that getting games under his belt will do him the power of good."

Prosser made just three appearances from the bench for County last season and scored one goal, in the 3-1 loss to Thurrock in February.

South Wales Argus

JULY-17

City told "You can have Vine for £2m"

CARDIFF City were today told by Birmingham they can have striker Rowan Vine for £2m.

The former Luton marksman has been deemed “surplus to requirements” at St Andrews and Bluebirds boss Dave Jones is a known admirer having tried to sign him in the January transfer window.

And now the newly-promoted Premiership club have issued a clear come and get him message – and are even prepared to take a £1m hit on a player who cost them £3m just seven months ago.

Whether City will actually put a bid on the table could depend on whether they secure Robbie Fowler, who has agreed personal terms.

The deal for the former England and Liverpool striker could be concluded quickly if he gives the thumbs up.

But City are still monitoring the Vine situation.

“Birmingham have an embarrassment of strikers and the club will take a hit on Vine,” said a source close to the Blues hierarchy.

“Vine is a decent Championship player and could do a job at that level, but he needs to play and move on – the club rate him around £2m and they’ll take that if Cardiff want him.”

City could be tempted by Vine as time is running out before the start of the season and quality strikers are currently a rare breed.

Mark Bloom

JULY-17

Swans injured 5 in line for recall to duty

Swansea City's injured quintet will be back in competitive action within the next 48 hours after recovering from knocks picked up during the club's Sweden tour. 

New striker Jason Scotland, midfield duo Leon Britton and Kristian O'Leary along with defensive pairing Alan Tate and Kevin Amankwaah watched from the sidelines as Swansea beat Swedish third division side Ostertund 5-2 on Saturday.

Scotland, Britton and O'Leary were all suffering with calf strains, while Tate sprained ankle ligaments in training and Amankwaah was suffering from a badly bruised toe.

All were deemed unnecessary risks for the friendly in Sweden, but are now expected to return to duty for the fixtures with Welsh Premier League duo Neath Athletic and Llanelli this week.

Chris Barney

JULY-17

Holmes will skipper TNS tonight

"It's brilliant, even some players at the highest level don't get the chance to play in Europe," said Holmes.

New Port Talbot Town manager Tony Pennock is set to start in goal for the Saints as emergency cover for the injured Doherty.

Latvian opponents Ventspils must travel to Newtown's Latham Park for the first leg, the return in Latvia on 25 July.

BBC

JULY-17

Jones wants strongest side for Stockport clash

DAVE Jones is aiming to field the team he hopes will start Cardiff City's Coca-Cola Championship campaign when they travel to play Stockport County on Saturday week.

The Bluebirds visit Yeovil Town this Saturday and then head north to face Stockport on July 28.

I'd like to think we'll be close to the team I want to start the season when we go to Stockport County, said Jones.

But we still have a couple of weeks before that game.

City have one home pre-season game before their league campaign starts, against FC Twente Enschede, who finished fourth in the Dutch League last season.

They are a strong team with good individual players, said defender Glenn Loovens, who is from Amsterdam.

That will be a tough match.

Stoke City are visitors to Ninian Park for the first Championship match on Saturday, August 11.

icWales

JULY-17

Welsh champions furious over TV Euro blackout

NEW SAINTS managing director Mike Harris has blasted Welsh television companies for refusing to screen tonight’s Champions League qualifier against Latvian outfit FK Ventspils.

Harris, a multimillionaire through providing internet network solutions, claims BBC Wales, ITV Wales and S4C have displayed total indifference to the game, which will be played at Newtown’s Latham Park.

“It’s a shame to find your national TV stations aren’t taking any interest whatsoever in the game,” stormed Harris, who has sold the overseas rights for the match to a German broadcaster.

“I can’t believe this would be the case if Cardiff City, Swansea City or Wrexham was representing Wales in Europe.

“Despite the fact we sold our live TV rights for the Liverpool game (three seasons ago) to ITV, we helped out BBC Wales by carving them into the deal, but now they’re just not interested.

“We’re not even interested in the money, we just want exposure. Could you see any other nation not wanting to cover its club in the Champions League?

“It shows a complete lack of confidence in their own system, they are supposed to be a service provider for the people of Wales, but all they’re doing is banishing us into the closet.”

A BBC Wales spokesman confirmed the company would not be providing live coverage of any of the Welsh Premier league clubs’ matches in the first qualifying rounds of the Champions League or the Uefa Cup.

Rhyl and Carmarthen Town both appear in the Uefa Cup on Thursday at home to Scandinavian opposition.

“We recognise and understand the disappointment surrounding this decision,” said the spokesman. “As you may know, in past years BBC Wales has broadcast selective television coverage of Welsh Premier league teams in Europe and this will continue to be our policy.

“Many factors are taken into consideration including scheduling, attractiveness of the tie and sequence of the legs.

“Of course, cost also has to be taken into account before arriving at a decision, and on this occasion it was decided not to televise the matches.

ITV Wales head of sport John Roberts said, “We’ve not been involved in negotiations with the broadcasting rights holder.

“While the Champions League is an ITV tournament in terms of broadcasting, we could not place it in our extremely crowded schedule this week.”

A spokesperson for S4C said, “S4C’s commitment to Welsh football is well proven. However, on this occasion, we were unable to provide coverage of this particular match.”

icWales

JULY-17

Carey rebuilding work not over

BOSS Brian Carey insists his Wrexham squad rebuilding programme is not yet complete despite having brought in three new faces to the Racecourse.

Carey is still looking to sign a central midfielder before the Dragons kick-off their season at Darlington on August 11.

“I’ve made no secret of the fact that I’ve had another midfield player in mind for a while,” said Carey.

“I’m still looking and if the right player comes along I’ve got to try and get him.”

Carey’s new faces, defender Richard Hope, midfielder Conall Murtagh and striker Eifion Williams, will get another chance to prove their worth tonight against Burnley in a Racecourse friendly.

Following quickly on the heels of this game will be a contest with Welsh Premier league outfit Newtown tomorrow night.

In the club’s previous two friendlies at the Racecourse, against Blackburn Rovers and Liverpool, Carey has fielded almost entirely different first- and second-half teams.

But he wants to use the next two games as an opportunity to give players up to an hour before introducing substitutes.

“I want to try and give people a bit more than a half – I’m going to give everybody as much time as I can in these games.”

icWales

JULY-17

Real deal for Nyatanga?

WALES defender Lewin Nyatanga could become Chris Coleman’s first signing at Real Sociedad.

The 18-year-old has just signed a new contract to stay with Premiership new boys Derby County for another four years.

But with Nyatanga’s chances often limited at Pride Park under Billy Davies, it looks like the cultured centre-half might well be heading out on loan again next season in search of first-team football.

Davies has brought in seasoned campaigners Claude Davis and Andy Todd into his defence, pushing Nyatanga down the Pride Park pecking order.

Nyatanga, who has 12 Wales caps to his name, spent spells at Sunderland and Barnsley last season before being recalled by Davies for the run-in.

But now it looks likely the Rams will loan Nyatanga out once more, at least until Christmas.

According to Nyatanga’s lawyer, Dean Sheehan of the Cardiff-based Definitive agency, West Brom, Wolves, Southampton, Sheffield Wednesday, Hull, Plymouth and Barnsley are keen to benefit from any such decision.

But, intriguingly, Coleman also wants to sign the teenager as the Basque club plan a promotion push back to the top flight of Spanish football.

Coleman has received favourable reports from the club’s director of football Salva Iriarte, who worked with Nyatanga when he was John Toshack’s No 2 with Wales.

icWales

JULY-16

Ipswich sign goalkeeper Neil Alexander

Former Scotland international Alexander, 29, rejected a new deal at Cardiff City in May and has signed a three-year deal with Ipswich.

Alexander underwent a medical at Ipswich on Monday as did striker Tommy Miller, 28, who is set to sign for Town on Tuesday.

Miller is available on a free transfer after being released by Sunderland.

Alexander joined Cardiff from Livingston for £200,000 in 2001 and went on to make over 230 appearances for the Bluebirds.

He made his Scotland debut as a second half substitute in March 2006 in a 3-1 friendly defeat against Switzerland.

Alexander's arrival at Portman Road could see current Ipswich first-choice keeper Lewis Price leave the Championship club.

Town manager Jim Magilton says there has been interest in the Welsh international but no concrete offers.

BBC

JULY-16

Spanish side Levante for the Liberty

Swansea will play Spanish side Levante at the Liberty Stadium on Sunday, August 5.The Valencia-based club finished 15th in La Liga last term and have just signed former Rangers striker Shota Arveladze from AZ Alkmaar.

Levante have former Newcastle and Portsmouth winger Laurent Robert in their ranks.

The Liberty Stadium side are also trying to arrange another home friendly before the start of the season.

Evening Post

JULY-16

Rhyl ready for Haka challenge

Attentions will now turn to Thursday’s showdown with Finish Veikausliiga team FC Haka of Valkeakoski. Rhyl manager John Hulse will be confidently pleased with his players recent performances in the last three hastily arranged friendly matches. 

Squad morale is high, and Hulse has strengthened the lilywhites ranks with some quality signing this term. FC Haka visit North Wales in indifferent form having won only one of there last five league matches. They currently lie in fourth position in the Finish (Veikausliinga) Premier League, and drew 3-3 in there last performance against sixth placed HJK on the 9th July. 

Although Haka’s league record shows they have only scored 13 goals in 11 games so far, it is obvious to see that they are not a free-scoring side. However, they do boast a mean defence having only conceded 10 goals. But with there European experience and credentials, Having performed 68 times in European football they will enter the Belle Vue arena with lots of confidence to take on a pre-season Rhyl.

www.thelilywhites.co.uk

JULY-16

Stones must cut it as a midfielder for Crewe

Evening Post

JULY-16

Rae to offer City’s midfield a touch of authority

GAVIN Rae showed in Portugal he can become a midfield force for Cardiff City in the Coca-Cola Championship.

The Scottish terrier is a player of a style and quality the Bluebirds have not had for many years.

Aberdeen-born Rae, 29, was man of the match for Cardiff in their 1-0 win against Vitoria de Setubal at Lisbon’s National Stadium. 

Rae has great energy. He loves to burst forward and has a real physical presence, crunching into tackles with good timing to win possession.

And manager Dave Jones insists Rae will grow stronger, saying: “It will take him a while to reach the fitness levels we expect.

“He has started well and has increased competition in midfield.

“We still have Riccy Scimeca to come back – and he is on course to be back by the start of the new season.”

Scottish international Rae is certainly a player to watch for when Cardiff City play their only home first team friendly, against Dutch club FC Twente on Saturday, August 4.

The former Rangers and Dundee player said: “I’m a box-to-box midfield player. I like to play football in the right way, to get the ball down and pass it.

“I always give 100 per cent and I hope the Cardiff supporters will see that from me.

icWales

JULY-16

Ugarte happy to be back

STRIKER Juan Ugarte has vowed to rebuild his career after he made his long-awaited return to Colliers Park on Saturday.

The 26-year-old Spaniard, who spent the summer break in his hometown of San Sebastian, said he had been working hard on his fitness in a bid to overcome the knee and hamstring problems that restricted him to just three starts for the Dragons last season.

“Since I went home in May I consulted the surgeon who carried out the knee surgery and I’ve been training and having treatment nearly every day at my former club, Real Sociedad,” Ugarte said yesterday.

“I’ve taken only four or five days holiday and the rest of the time I have been swimming, cycling and working in the gym twice a day.

“But ever since the beginning of this month I have been desperate to get back to Wrexham and join the other players.”

Ugarte claims to have completely recovered from the knee injury that caused his initial lay-off and is optimistic that his suspect hamstring is now strong enough to withstand the rigours of League Two football.

icWales

JULY-16

Fowler agrees terms with Bluebirds

ROBBIE Fowler has verbally agreed personal terms with Cardiff City – and is closer than ever to signing for the Bluebirds.

The former Liverpool and England striker was flying back from Australia today and is due to hold what it is hoped will be final negotiations with City chairman Peter Ridsdale tomorrow.

Sources close to the player suggest he will not be signing for Sydney United, the club he visited in Australia, and that he has all but ruled out a move to Leicester City.

Instead, Fowler is thought to be keen to work with fellow Scouser Dave Jones at Ninian Park.

Ridsdale will not break the club’s wage structure and Fowler's deal is now believed to be around £10,000 per week plus bonuses based on goals and promotion.

The length of contract offered is likely to be two years.

Ridsdale is ready to fly back from his family holiday in Florida at short notice to tie up the deal, although he has already met both Fowler and his agent, George Scott, and it is possible a deal can be completed by fax and telephone.

The trip back from Australia has taken Fowler 24 hours and City manager Jones is arriving back in Britain from the pre-season tour to Portugal at around 5pm today.

Neither Ridsdale nor Jones would comment today, but both believe a deal is within reach.

icWales

JULY-16

No let up says Martinez

Roberto Martinez says that his Swansea City players will continue with their gruelling pre-season training when they return to Wales tonight.

The Liberty Stadium squad have been having four training sessions a day while in Sweden and the manager will not let his players take it easy on their return.

Martinez took his players to Ostersund for a week's training camp at altitude before a game with the Swedish third division outfit on Saturday.

Swansea ran out 5-2 winners with two goals from on-loan Liverpool winger Paul Anderson and strikes from Darryl Duffy, Darren Pratley and Ferrie Bodde.

''This have been an excellent exercise for us,'' Martinez said.

''We have been away with no distractions and the boys have been working very hard.

''And they will continue to work hard when they return.''

New signing Jason Scotland, Leon Britton, Kristian O'Leary, Kevin Amankwaah and Alan Tate all missed Saturday's game with minor injuries.

''These kind of things tend to happen at this time of year - it is nothing worry about,'' Martinez added.

''What was important was that this trip was a success and it will help us for the new season.

''The result was not the most important thing for us.''

Martinez says his eight new signings - Scotland, Duffy, Bodde, Guillem Bauza, Angel Rangel, Anderson, Matty Collins and Dorus de Vries - all fitted in well.

All of the Swansea players got 45 minutes under their belts against Ostersund.

''The new boys all fitted in well. The players have made them all feel welcome,'' Martinez added.

''It has been a fantastic week and it has been ideal preparation for a tough 10 months ahead.''

Evening Post

JULY-16

Final whistle for one of Wales oldest clubs

ONE of Wales’s oldest football clubs could face life in the wilderness in only 12 months’ time.

Treharris AFC, a founder member of the Welsh League in 1889, have to upgrade their dilapidated Athletic Ground or face the trap door to extinction.

The ground, which once held crowds in the thousands, was ranked one of the worst after a Welsh League inspection.

But confusion surrounds who is actually responsible for it.

The club say their lease with Merthyr County Borough Council finished in 1996, but the council say it’s still in the club’s hands.

Club secretary Mike Casey, an FAW committee member, doesn’t see much hope for the club he has been at for more than 30 years.

“This ground is in a very poor state of repair but in 34 years we’ve never had any help from the council,” he said.

“The pitch is in a very poor state, the away dug-out can seat only two, the stand is the only realistic place for people to watch and there is only one toilet for everyone.

“The ground is not fit for purpose and should be condemned.

“Since we have been told I’ve had several phone calls from local people asking if they can do anything to help.

“It’s all uphill now though.

“If we don’t get the facilities improved in 12 months’ time, or don’t find another ground to play at, the club will probably fold.

“Players won’t want to play in anything but the Welsh League, and you can’t blame them.

“There wouldn’t be any future for the club and it would slip away after 118 years.”

A Merthyr CBC spokeswoman said the ground is under long-term lease from the council and works required to upgrade the facility are “significant” and would be “difficult” to fund with existing budgets.

Welsh League secretary Ken Tucker would be sad to see Treharris fold and has a lot of sympathy with the club.

“The ground was subject to a surveyor’s report a few years ago and I believe there was subsidence found but nothing was done then.

“Its condition has deteriorated over the years and it is now in a position where it doesn’t meet the criteria.

“We will probably give them 12 months to bring the ground up to standard, but I feel desperately sorry for them because they are one of the oldest clubs in Wales and their ground is owned by the council.

icWales

JULY-16

Bluebirds deny Jeffers interest

The Bluebirds are in the market for a striker after selling leading scorer Michael Chopra to Sunderland for £5m.

Robbie Fowler is one target, but the ex-Liverpool striker was in Australia at the weekend meeting with Sydney FC.

"It's reported in the papers that we're now about to sign Francis Jeffers and that's nonsense," Ridsdale said.

BBC

JULY-16

Green eager to fit in with Bluebirds

CARDIFF City’s pre-season trip to Portugal came as a shock to teenage striker Matt Green.

For the former Newport County player this is his first experience of full-time pre-season training and he said: “I thought I was fit. Ultra fit. How wrong I was!

“This is a different level to anything I am used to. I didn’t even realise it all went this far. My lungs seemed to be bursting at one stage.

“Thankfully, I am able to keep up and the running is fine, particularly the sprinting. That’s what I am good at.

“I wasn’t even sure until the last minute I would be coming on the tour and it’s been great to be a part of it.”

Bath-born Green, 18, has looked sharp and strong during Cardiff’s week-long trip to Portugal – and manager Dave Jones is watching his development closely.

“Matt needs to be fitter and stronger,” said Jones. “He’s working hard and getting there.

“We are also working hard with him on controlling the ball better. He is young and he’s learning all the time. He needs to play matches and maybe he will have to go out on loan to gain experience and play.

“But we’ll see how he develops.”

Green, who joined the Bluebirds for a bargain £10,000 fee from Newport County in January, has made six Coca-Cola Championship appearances. All six have been from the substitutes bench and he has played a total of 94 minutes so far.

icWales

JULY-15

Fowler 'come and join me'

CARDIFF CITY aim to have three former England internationals in their starting line-up when the new season kicks off on August 11.

The Bluebirds are still chasing Robbie Fowler with the ex-Liverpool striker due back for discussions with City chairman Peter Ridsdale following talks with Australian outfit Sydney FC.

And Wales on Sunday understands Cardiff are also eyeing up Blackburn marksman Francis Jeffers as a potential replacement for Michael Chopra.

With former World Cup star Trevor Sinclair already signed up, the Bluebirds could have a trio of former England caps on their books.

Ridsdale has already admitted he is chasing players with international experience, and last night offered a commitment to deliver two quality strikers by the time the Championship kicks off.

Funded by the £5m sale of star striker Chopra to Sunderland, Ridsdale said: “I would be extremely disappointed if we didn’t have two new strikers by August 11.

“We’ve brought in six quality players already this summer, we’re already stronger, and I will give my commitment to deliver two strikers by the time we kick off.

“There’s a lot of talk about a lot of players but I’m trying not to speculate. But we’re completely aware of the need to bring in quality strikers who are proven goalscorers, and anyone who fits into that category will be on our radar.”

And after also revealing the club has turned down bids for FIVE players, Ridsdale has knocked claims Cardiff are simply a selling club.

Knocking back bids for Roger Johnson, Peter Whittingham and Joe Ledley as well as the two offers for Aaron Ramsey and Chris Gunter, he added: “Every club is a selling club – but we’re also a buying club. I would challenge anybody to look at the squad today and match it with that of two years ago when I joined and tell me we’re not stronger.”

Hopes of landing Fowler, 32, have been boosted by new signing Sinclair, who admitted he has used the England’s ‘old boys act’ to try and persuade the striker to join Dave Jones’ new-look side.

icWales

JULY-15

Roberto turns evil to lift Swans

SO much for Mr Nice Guy – it seems Roberto Martinez is just plain evil.

When the smiling Spaniard first walked through the door as Swansea City manager, he was accused of being too genial to be a gaffer.

Now, having begun his preparations for a first full season in charge, his players want to put the record straight.

After little more than a week of pre-season training, Alan Tate admitted: “There was all that talk of him being too nice for the job but I can tell you now that’s not the case after what he’s put us through so far.

“What he had us doing even before we went to Sweden was really tough and our estimation of him has certainly changed. I would go as far to say he is evil – and that’s being kind!”

It seems Martinez the manager has become Martinez the masochist, joining the squad on some gruelling runs around Swansea’s scenic Singleton Park before jetting off for high-altitude training in Sweden.

It’s all part of his meticulous masterplan for the weeks leading up to the season and to reach new levels of footballing fitness rather than simply restoring last season’s standards.

But Tate, never shy to express his feelings, insisted Martinez’s sinister side has been welcomed.

“But to be fair, an easy pre-season doesn’t get you anywhere and deep down nobody wants it easy – we want it to hurt. All the players wanted to be aching that next day to show how much we want this, and the fact we did showed just how much we put in. “It will be good preparation for the big season we have coming up.”

icWales

JULY-15

Robert Cooke joins Board of Directors

Port Talbot Town Football Club are delighted to announce that Robert Cooke has joined the club and will sit on the Board of Directors. 

The former General Manager of Pontardawe Town has a wealth of football knowledge and experience to bring to the club and will join Andrew Edwards, Phil Davies, John Heycock, John Dawkins and Mark Pitman on the board.

 “I am delighted that Robert has agreed to become involved with the club”, said Chairman Andrew Edwards. “It has been a long term plan of mine to build a strong board of directors at the club to help us achieve our aims and offer security for the future. 

Robert has a great deal of experience in the game and will play an important role in helping take us to the next level both on and off the field.”

Mark Pitman

JULY-15

Wrexham star Hope adds bite

WREXHAM will be a stronger side this season – in every sense of the word.

Already Brian Carey’s showing he’s stuck to his word about being focused on fitness, with players handed strict new levels for pre-season.

The five new signings look to have added that extra quality so badly missing at times last year.

But one of those new faces, defender Richard Hope, could bring that extra bit of muscle needed for the League Two campaign.

Together with Wales’ brick-outhouse Steve Evans, the Red Dragons now boast two real beasts at the back.

Hope and Evans, 6ft 2in and 6ft 5in respectively, are not the kind of defenders you’d want to meet in a dark alley.

And 29-year-old Hope said: “I’ve come into this squad and there’s four good centre-backs who could all play their part, but playing Steve and me is an option.

“He did very well last year and I remember Steve vividly from coming up against him last season.

“Because he was one of the bigger lads and I had to mark him at set pieces, I can tell you first hand he’s a real handful. He had a really good season and, if we’re given the chance, we could do well together.”

Shaun Pejic, one of Wrexham’s better players last year, and impressive youngster Gareth Evans might have something to say about that.

But striker Neil Roberts admitted: “Not many forwards in this division would want to come up against Richard and Steve.

icWales

JULY-15

MacLean strike gives Cardiff win

Fellow new recruit Gavin Rae, who was outstanding in midfield, found MacLean unmarked in the box and the striker slotted under the advancing goalkeeper.

Rae, who combined well with Stephen McPhail in the middle, also drew a good save from the Setubal keeper.

A third new signing, Trevor Sinclair, also looked bright at Estadio do Jamor.

Cardiff will now return from Portugal and continue their pre-season programme at Yeovil next Saturday.

Cardiff: Forde, Ledley, Loovens, Johnson, McNaughton, Rae, McPhail, Sinclair, Whittingham, Feeney, MacLean.

BBC

JULY-15

Swans boosted by Anderson brace

Wing Paul Anderson, 19 this month and on a season-long loan from Liverpool, grabbed a brace after half-time.

Darren Pratley, Ferrie Bodde and Darryl Duffy, picking up as a permanent Swan from where he left off as a loanee, gave the Swans a 3-1 lead at the break.

But Kevin Amankwaah, Kristian O'Leary, Alan Tate and Jason Scotland all sat out after picking up training knocks.

The friendly, which marked the opening of the Swedish lower league side's new stadium, was the culmination of a week of training at altitude for the Swans.

The squad returns to Wales on Monday, with friendlies to follow at Neath (18 July), Llanelli (19 July) and Port Talbot (25 July).

Swansea then embark on their tour to Holland, which kicks-off on 29 July with a game against Stormvogels Telstar.

BBC

JULY-15

Bellamy will be ‘our new Tevez’

DEAN Ashton has backed new strike partner Craig Bellamy to fill the void at West Ham left by Carlos Tevez.

Controversial Argentine international Tevez is expected to complete his acrimonious move to Premiership champions Manchester United from the Hammers this week – but England striker Ashton believes Bellamy can also become an Upton Park fans’ favourite.

“The quicker the Carlos Tevez affair is sorted the better, but we’ve a top replacement in Craig Bellamy,” said Ashton, who was playing his first game in 12 months yesterday.

“Craig is a great player and it shows the ambition of West Ham if we’re signing a player of his quality. He is a terrier and opposition defenders don’t like that sort of player.

“Craig has great pace, he runs in behind defenders and causes all sorts of problems. He creates chances, scores goals and is such a threat that you’d rather have him on your side than against you.”

Bellamy was set to make his Hammers debut at Dagenham yesterday since his club-record £7.5m move after the 28-year-old striker was the highest-profile casualty of Liverpool’s failed Champions League tilt.

icWales

JULY-15

‘I want to stay on past 2010’ – Tosh

JOHN Toshack wants to stay Wales manager beyond the 2010 World Cup.

Tosh’s current contract is due to run out in 2009 after signing a five-year deal to replace Mark Hughes two-and-a-half years ago.

That will take him up until the end of the qualifying campaign for the next World Cup, but now Toshack has admitted he would be happy to extend his tenure.

And he also revealed he has a clause in his contract that will allow him to do just that should he lead Wales to their first major finals in more than 50 years.

Toshack said: “You’re only as good as your last job. I’m enjoying it, I know the difficulties and I know one or two people may not be in 100 per cent agreement with what I’m trying to do but that doesn’t concern me. I’m at peace with myself and comfortable because I know what I’m doing is in the best interests of the future of the association.

“And I hope I may be in a position further down the line to continue even longer – but I have to prove myself first of all.

“My contract runs out in 2009, but there’s a clause in there if we qualify that goes on beyond that.

“A lot of things need to come together all at the same time for us to qualify but if I felt I was doing the job well and things were going on as well as I would like then I would probably like to be a part of that.

icWales

JULY-14

Bluebirds consider linking up with Uwic

CARDIFF City are eyeing up facilities at the University of Wales Institute, Cardiff, as a base for training.

Plans for a move to the Vale and Glamorgan Hotel and Country Club, where City would have shared with Cardiff Blues, John Toshack’s Wales team and the Welsh Rugby Union, were scuppered when planning permission was turned down.

Those plans are being redrawn and re-submitted, but the Bluebirds have had to look at alternatives.

And they discovered outstanding facilities at Uwic, who have a massive sporting tradition.

Manager Dave Jones has been to Uwic to look at what is available and he was impressed.

Cardiff City are still based at University of Glamorgan Playing Fields, Treforest, for now, but that facility is not available for the whole season.

And the football club may well favour a switch to Uwic, who initially approached Cardiff City and are keen to host Jones and his players.

Uwic vice chancellor, Professor Anthony Chapman has expressed his delight at talks over a link-up between the university and City.

“We are pleased that Uwic may be developing an on-going relationship to support the ambitions of Cardiff City,” said Professor Chapman.

“The benefits of Uwic and its School of Sport in working with Cardiff City are considerable.”

icWales

JULY-14

Mohamed looking to build on trial at Wrexham

IF first impressions count, Wrexham trialist Kaid Mohamed did his prospects no harm at all with a stunning goal against Premiership opposition.

Just 10 minutes after coming on as a half-time substitute in the friendly against Blackburn Rovers, the 22-year-old from Caerau Ely coolly rounded US international goalkeeper Brad Friedel and slotted home for the Dragons’ only goal.

“It was a great feeling,” he said. “And the goal gave me the confidence to make runs and take people on for the rest of the game.
“(Wrexham manager) Brian Carey had told me to go out there and enjoy myself, and that’s what I did.
“After the game, he said I’d done well, as did Roy Evans.
“It was a big buzz to hear words like that from a footballing legend!”

Mohamed crowned a superb 2006-7 season for Welsh Premier side Carmarthen Town with two goals in May’s 3-1 Welsh Cup final win over Afan Lido, and was recommended to Carey by ex-Old Gold boss Mark Jones.

The former St Mary Immaculate pupil has spent the last week training with the Dragons, and already has his sights set on a more permanent move.

“Playing at this level for a living is something I’ve always wanted to do,” he said.

icWales

JULY-14

Summer's the way forward for WPL

Welsh football's top flight will fail to progress quickly enough if it does not switch to summer football. No imagination, a lack of ambition and a reluctance to change are the reasons behind the Welsh Premier League's clubs defiance against a new format.

That's secretary John Deakin's view as he continues to be baffled as to why member clubs do not show support for a radical change in Welsh football.

According to Deakin, who himself investigated the pros and cons of summer football during a report into Ireland's Eircom League, Welsh football would reap better results in European competitions and an increase in both playing standards and attendances.

icWales

JULY-14

A tale of two cities for Fowler

ROBBIE FOWLER will hold fresh talks with Cardiff City early next week as the Bluebirds step up their bid to pull off Welsh football’s biggest transfer coup for 29 years.

Cardiff’s attempt to land Liverpool legend Fowler, originally dismissed by some cynics as paper talk, has gathered more and more momentum in the last 48 hours.

City have been officially installed as favourites to get their No 1 transfer target, while Welsh legend Ian Rush has revealed how he has tried to persuade Fowler to come to Wales.

Bluebirds manager Dave Jones will attempt to woo Fowler with further talks in the coming days.

It appears the battle for Fowler has turned into a two-horse race between Cardiff, who offer genuine competitive football in the Championship, and Sydney FC, who are offering the culture and sunshine of Australia as their big draw card.

Fowler is in Australia where he has been holding talks about a move down under for the last 48 hours. He flies back to the UK on Monday and is set to travel to Cardiff for further talks with Jones. Fowler was being non-committal about his future last night, saying from Australia, “I’ve spoken to George Perry, chief executive of Sydney FC, last week and obviously I’m very interested.

“That is the reason why I’m over here, to look at everything.

“But there are other offers and I’m weighing everything up.

icWales

JULY-14

Lucky number 7 for McKenna?

The New Saints' manager has led his side into Europe six times, but is still looking for his first win.
"We need to raise the bar now," he says. "I've said to Mike Harris, we've done well in the league, but if you want to do well in Europe you've got to get one or two experienced quality players to guide the rest of them through.

"We've not won in Europe, I don't think we've had the luck of the draw, we've had some really tough opponents and I was hoping this season we'd get someone on a similar level and who are not in mid-season.

"I've had a bit of criticism over the past few years for making this point, but anybody with half a brain or any football knowledge will tell you that somebody who's played 17 league games against a side that's had four friendlies has got a massive advantage.

"Last year we played an excellent team - had it been the other way round, that they'd played four friendlies and we'd played 17 league games I would have fancied us to beat them. If you look at Llanelli, with no time to prepare, they've gone out on away goals, so I think it's a massive disadvantage for the Welsh Premier clubs, I really do."

TNS official website

JULY-14

Chopra Keane to be a hit

MICHAEL Chopra has admitted the lure of playing for Roy Keane tempted him away from Cardiff City.

The 23-year-old yesterday completed a £5m move to Premiership club Sunderland after passing a medical at the Stadium of Light.

And the striker, who scored 22 Championship goals for the Bluebirds last season, said he couldn’t pass up the chance to line up for ex-Ireland star Keane.

“The challenge to play for Roy Keane and Sunderland was too good to turn down,” said Chopra.

“I remembered playing for Newcastle reserves and travelling to play Manchester United for a game. We knew Roy was coming back from injury and were all excited to be playing against him.

“Now I’m hoping to learn from him here and do well with Sunderland. It’s an exciting move for me.

Chopra is also hoping to win over the Sunderland fans despite having spent his early days at Newcastle.

“I know there’s going to be some doubters, but if I can give 100 per cent every game and score goals for Sunderland then hopefully I can win their hearts.

“I’m a North-East lad, so I know the rivalry. I also know a lot of players have gone across the river in the past and become legends. I just want to do well.”

He is also aware of the expectation on him, telling Sunderland’s website: “Strikers are always under pressure, but I don’t feel it about scoring goals.”

icWales

JULY-14

Newtown's Sutton on International Stand-By

The Elite Group Competition, which takes place in Coleraine, Northern Ireland features teams from Chile, Israel and the host Nation between Friday July 27th and Saturday August 4th 2007.

Newtown Manager Darren Ryan reportedly beat several clubs to the signature of the former Wales Under 17 Centre Back after he was released by Shrewsbury Town in the close season.

Midfielder Joe Allen and striker Oliver Hewit Fisher, both of Swansea City, are in the squad and under the new arrangement with Port Talbot Town, they could both feature in the Principality Welsh Premier this year. The squad is likely to be captained by Cardiff City midfielder, Arron Ramsey, who was the subject of a £1m bid by a London-based Premiership club last month.

Welshpremier.com

JULY-13

Winners and losers in league shake-up

NEXT season’s MacWhirter Welsh Football League will revert to a complement of 54 clubs.

That was the main outcome of last Saturday’s Annual General Meeting staged at Maesteg Park AFC with Cwmaman Institute from Aberdare and Monmouth Town welcomed on board from the feeder leagues.

Relegation for both Chepstow Town and AFC Porth was confirmed, while Grange Quins will be allowed to continue in the second division.

Last season the first division was built around 19 clubs, owing to the late relegation from the Welsh Premiership of Grange.

That led to the top flight carrying an extra team, but the 55-club problem was ironically solved back in December when Gwynfi United withdrew from the league.

The promotion of champions Neath Athletic to the Welsh Premiership, with Cwmbran Town taking an opposite course then maintained the status quo.

But second-division Grange Quins, who have been the subject of speculation regarding their future, have been shown leniency.

The Cardiff side are being allowed to play their five opening matches at Leckwith Stadium, and then on a ground-share basis with second-division colleagues Caerau Ely.

It is anticipated that the new athletics stadium at Leckwith will be up and running by Christmas – and that will signal a return home for Grange.

However, there is also speculation surrounding the future of second-division UWIC, who like Grange were relegated from the top flight at the end of last season.

It is believed the league management committee are losing patience with the students.

Administration procedures surrounding the Cyncoed-based club is thought to be the root cause, and things will come to a head over the coming weeks.

icWales

JULY-13

Bookies impressed by Swan's new signings

Roberto Martinez's summer of squad rebuilding has been given the thumbs up by bookies - Swansea City have been installed as third favourites to win Coca-Cola League One.

Swansea-based bookmaker Ken Howells Sports Betting make Nottingham Forest 6-1 favourites to come out on top in the race for the Championship, while Leeds are 7-1 despite their vast off-field problems.

Then come Martinez's Swansea, who are priced at 12-1 along with Doncaster Rovers.

Evening Post

JULY-13

Crows given Merthyr Cup challenge

After suffering relegation from the top-flight Welsh Premier League, the Crows must now come into the national competition at the first round stage on September 15.

Cwmbran will play in Division One of the Welsh League and cup opponents Saints will also play in a different section next season after also suffering relegation - to Division Three.

Cwmbran's three WC final appearances all came under the managership of the late Tony Willcox.

The Cardiff-based civil servant led the Crows to the1996-97 final when they were beaten 2-1 by Barry Town at Cardiff City's Ninian Park before reaching the final again in 1999-2000, only to lose out 1-0 to Bangor City at Wrexham's Racecourse Ground.

Three seasons later, in 2002-03, the Crows went even closer to lifting world football's oldest surviving national cup when they were beaten 4-3 on penalties by Barry following a 2-2 after-extra-time draw at Stebonheath Park, Llanelli.

South Wales Argus

JULY-13

City could lose Fowler to Sydney

The 32-year-old is a free agent after being released by Liverpool, and has been in Sydney for discussions, with Cardiff City also in the hunt.

Fowler said: "I spoke to Sydney's chief executive George Perry, and obviously I'm very interested.

"I've got a young family, so basically I'm over here to see what it's like and see if it's good for them."

He added: "Obviously I'm over here to see how it is, then I'll go and report back and see how they feel."

Cardiff are also waiting to discover if Fowler can be tempted into a move into the Championship.

Bluebirds chairman Peter Ridsdale told the Liverpool FC website: "We have offered an attractive package and are hopeful Robbie will decide to come."

Fowler's adviser George Scott said Cardiff could be an option for Fowler.

He said: "I think Cardiff, if they have the ambition, is the sort of place Robbie would thrive at."

The forward is financially secure, thanks to shrewd property investments, and it is possible he could take a drastic drop in wages from his Anfield salary.

But failing that, Cardiff would either need to shatter their wage structure - which is unlikely given the financial constraints caused by building a new stadium at Leckwith - or put together a huge sponsorship package.

BBC

JULY-13

Wrexham keen to aid England cause

Steve McLaren's side are set to face their Group E rivals on an artificial pitch at the Luzhniki Olympic stadium in Moscow on 17 October.

The same state-of-the-art surface, Uefa and Fifa approved, was recently laid at Wrexham's training ground.

"If England want somewhere to train, then they are more than welcome to contact us," said director Geoff Moss.

"The pitch was officially opened by [Wales manager] John Toshack in the summer and he too, was very impressed by what he saw at Gresford.

"We are constantly working to improve things for the players, both in training and on matchday, and this just shows how high our ambitions are."

BBC

JULY-13

Chopra move angers Sunderland fans

MICHAEL CHOPRA has been warned he is walking into a north-east minefield after agreeing personal terms to join Sunderland in a £5m move from Cardiff City.

Chopra will have a medical this morning before his move to Roy Keane’s side is formally announced by the two clubs.

But, while there is disquiet amongst City fans here in Wales about Chopra’s contentious move, up on Wearside news of the transfer has also gone down like a lead balloon.

Sunderland fans have bombarded websites with complaints about the club signing a former Newcastle player who has freely spoken in the past of how much it means to score against their team.

The local Sunderland newspaper has already produced a series of negative opinion polls focusing on Chopra’s arrival.

The fans’ discontent has been reinforced further by quoting contentious comments from the 23-year-old about how he loves scoring against Sunderland.

If he is to succeed, Chopra will have to learn from the mistakes made by Lee Clark, the last Geordie to pull on the red and white of Newcastle’s big rivals. Clark was an influential player for Sunderland, but his inability to hide his love of the Toon soon saw him driven out of the club.

Most fans would be happy with the arrival of a £5m striker, but the Sunderland faithful were initially united in their opposition to Chopra’s arrival. There has been slightly more balance in the last 24 hours with fans acknowledging Chopra’s 22 goals for City last year indicates an impressive instinct for goal.

icWales

JULY-13

Cardiff reject 2nd £1m bid for Ramsey

CARDIFF CITY have turned down a second £1m-plus Premiership bid for Aaron Ramsey, this time from Liverpool, amid mounting speculation that Chelsea are also in the hunt for the highly-rated Welsh teenager.

Bluebirds chairman Peter Ridsdale confirmed that the approach from Liverpool had been rebuffed, just days after Cardiff rejected a similar £1m offer from a top London club.

Sources close to Cardiff say that club was either Arsenal or Tottenham, but the Western Mail understands Jose Mourinho has also joined the chase for the 16-year-old midfielder tipped for huge things.

Ridsdale, speaking from his holiday base in Florida, dismissed the Chelsea talk.

“It is utter rubbish. I’m not aware of Chelsea’s interest,” said the Cardiff chief. But he confirmed, “Liverpool are the second Premiership team to put in a seven-figure bid for Ramsey, but he’s not

“In fact, we are not selling any more of our crown jewels. Our young players like Ramsey, Ledley and Gunter are not for sale. We are going to build a team around them.”

The interest from the Premiership giants underlines how highly rated Ramsey is in the game, even though he only has 60 seconds of first-team action.

icWales

JULY-13

Hulse faces Difficult Selection Dilemma

"We have built up two quality sides here with players who are stronger and fitter than any I have ever known before," said the Rhyl manager.

"They train hard, prepare hard and are really keen to make their mark but there isn't room for them all which is why I know thereâ€ll be some very disappointed faces."

Hulse gives his contenders a final run-out in tomorrow's pre-season friendly against a decent West Kirby at Marine Park having already won their two other warm-up matches against Surrey side Sutton Common 7-1 and Mynydd Isa away 2-1.

"We are grateful to Mynydd Isa for fitting us in at short notice and really I could have done with a few more games ahead of next Thursday," he said.

"We have this problem every year and it's the price we have to pay for being in Europe and having our season starting that much earlier than all the others. Let's hope it's a problem we have again next year."

Rhyl overcame Mynydd Isa with goals from strikers Andy Moran and Phil Coffin. Triallist Michael White, a New Zealand Under 20 International, played in the first half, although he is still yet to sign, with Football League clubs Chester City,

Welshpremier.com

JULY-13

Barton's Bluebirds face Wrexham Test

It's certainly a daunting task for the rookie boss, who has recently lost Geraint Lewis to NEWI Cefn Druids, who followed Chris Venables, Huw Clarke and Lloyd Grist out of the Caersws exit door in the close season.

The friendly date with the League Two side had already been penciled in before Barton left Guilsfield to take charge of the Principality Welsh Premier men two weeks ago and he told John Bridgewater;

"It's a great game to be involved in, it's only a shame that it's come so early for us."

The game should give ex-Carmarthen Town striker Kaid Mohamed a further chance to impress Dragons boss Brian Carey as he looks to seal a professional contract with the League 2 side.

Welshpremier.com

JULY-13

Battle looming for County keeper shirt

Thompson, 26, arrives after being released by the Bulls at the end of the season and will go straight into battle with Jacob Giles to slot in between the sticks.

The 6ft 3ins stopper started his career at his hometown club Shrewsbury before signing for Fulham in 1999 in a 000 deal where he was deputy to internationals Maik Taylor and Edwin van der Sar during his four seasons at the club.

He also had spells with Mansfield, Northampton Town and Chesterfield but he is now looking for regular football.

"Glyn was offered a contract with Hereford, but wanted first team football and luckily he agreed to come to us," said Exiles boss Peter Beadle.

"I think he was at a crossroads in his career where he wanted to be first choice. He has been unfortunate in his career so far in that he has never had a crack at keeping his place and has always been thought of as a number two.

"Keepers need a break sometimes - they can find themselves in the side when there is an injury and straight out again when the number one recovers.

"Glyn had that last season with Hereford but I have told him that I believe if a player does the job then they keep their place.

"I have every confidence in both keepers and they both know the situation and I'm looking forward to a real fight for the place."

Of course the new man has an advantage, courtesy of Giles' suspension for his dismissal at Eastbourne at the end of last season.

"Glyn knows that he will start the season and now he has got to take his chance," said Beadle. "He's a big lad with a safe pair of hands and it's obvious that he's no mug because he has been at a pro club for all of his career.

"We've had some good keepers through the years here with Tony Pennock and Mark Ovendale and now we have got two young keepers who have a lot of ambition and drive."

South Wales Argus

JULY-13

Striker is a priority for Merthyr

MERTHYR Tydfil will continue their search for a striker following a 2-0 pre-season friendly defeat to Cardiff City.

Manager Garry Shephard, although delighted with his side’s first-half defence, is still in the market for a front man after the team drew a blank at Penydarren Park.

Having seen Bluebirds star man Michael Chopra net a double to seal the win for the capital side, Shephard said he was happy with his team’s performance in their first outing under his management.

“Defensively we were really sound. We closed down well and for the first 45 minutes we were unbelievable,” said the 31-year-old.

“Everyone was saying it was going to be 6-0, but Cardiff knew they were going to be in for a game and I’m proud of the boys.

“We’ve got to make sure now we’ve got a good bunch of players. The midfield is pretty much sorted but we are looking for a striker. I want to try to get a bigger guy up front but they are very hard to find.”

After the match, Shephard confirmed new boy Andrew Thomas would be the Martyrs captain for next season, having signed Dale Griffiths from Llanelli and John Phillips from Newport County before the match.

icWales

JULY-12

Swansea players link up with Port Talbot

"I'm talking about players aged 18, 19, 20 or 21. They are still growing, still developing and still learning as a footballer Martinez said.

Under the new arrangement, Swansea youngsters will spend most of the week training at the Liberty before turning out for Port Talbot at the weekends.

And Martinez will have a ready-made scout watching the games in the shape of new Steelmen manager Tony Pennock, who is also Swansea's goalkeeping coach.

"It's about getting youngsters to play competitive football because it's an extra step towards becoming a professional," Martinez added.

"We will have a daily link-up with the players so we can monitor their progress. They will work with us but then play for Tony Pennock."

The first young Swans will join up with Port Talbot in the next few weeks, with the likes of Joe Allen, Scott Evans, Kerry Morgan and Kyle Graves among the candidates to make the move to the RE/MAX Stadium.

"I can't say who they are now, but we have players lined to start playing for Port Talbot in August," Martinez said.

"There are a couple of players it will be ideal for - it will give them the best chance of making it at Swansea."

GARETH VINCENT

JULY-12

Pontypridd confirm new manager

PONTYPRIDD Town have taken on former Maesteg and Grange Quins boss Mal Camilleri as team manager for the coming season.

Camilleri is a EUFA ‘B’ licence coach and will be assisted by former Brighton, Cardiff City and Wimbledon player Mark Elliott, who is a Pontypridd-based fitness coach.

Alan Duckstein remains on the staff and physio John Jones, from Aberbargoed, has also been appointed at the club.

Despite training having been called at short notice last week, there was an encouraging number of players in attendance for the first time on Saturday, with a mixture of senior and youth players plus a number of trialists.

“I am over the moon at the moment because it’s not going to be the complete rebuild that everyone thought it would be,” said Camilleri in his first words to the Observer.

“My aim is to finish in the top ten and, hopefully, find a few more local businesses to come in and sponsor the club so we can move forward.

“I have won silverware at every club I’ve managed and I’m really looking forward to the challenge.”

Camilleri is a firm believer in a 4-4-2 formation and plans to use the tactics that have served him well over the years at Pontypridd.

“I like to play short passing football, with quick players who can get in behind defences,” he said.

“It’s going to be hard work because some of our players have never seen this style of play before, as they have been playing long-ball up to a big striker.

“I like to speak to players as adults and I realise the need to be very careful in the first couple of months to learn who needs a rollicking every now and then – and which players don’t respond to that. I don’t tolerate any nonsense from players and, if they go off the rails, they’ll be down the road. I want harmony all the way through the squad.”

Club Development Officer Ceri James said: “We are very pleased with the amount of interest that has been shown shortly after Mal’s appointment, and with a number of senior players expected to return to training this week the future is looking much rosier than it did a short while ago.

“However, there is still a lot of work to do and anyone interested in joining the staff in a playing or non-playing capacity should contact the club or attend training at Hawthorn High School playing fields from 6.30pm on Tuesday and Thursday evenings.”

JAMES HODGSON

JULY-12

FAW praise Town as Euro venue

Evening Post

JULY-12

A special relationship between Martinez and Benitez

Roberto Martinez hopes his friendship with Rafael Benitez could see a stream of Liverpool starlets turning out for Swansea City in the next few seasons. Martinez has used his Merseyside connection to land Reds prospect Paul Anderson on a season-long loan.

And the Swansea boss hopes his relationship with Benitez, the only other Spanish manager in English football, could see a long-term link-up developing between Anfield and the Liberty Stadium.

"I have known Rafa since before he joined Liverpool," Martinez explained.

"I have huge respect and admiration for the job he has done there, and also for what he did at Valencia and in the rest of his career. For me it's great to have a link with him and hopefully it will be beneficial for Swansea City."

Championship new boys Blackpool were also in for Anderson, the former Hull youngster who could cost Liverpool £1.5million depending on his success in their senior side.

Benitez had the final say on where Anderson went this term, though, and it seems he wanted the teenager to cut his first-team teeth in Wales.

"Rafa has been very helpful," Martinez added.

"He always offers you whatever he has got and it's been good for us to keep an eye on all the youngsters he has directed our way.

"That is something we will continue to do and hopefully in the future we will see a few more Liverpool players coming to Swansea."

Anderson has travelled with Martinez's squad for a pre-season training camp in Sweden despite the fact that he is not officially a Swansea player as yet.

"We are just waiting for a phone call, but we don't envisage there being any problem," a Swans spokesman said.

Evening Post

JULY-12

Champions league is Bellamy aim for Hammers

Craig Bellamy is determined to fire West Ham into the Champions League after completing a club-record £7.5million move from Liverpool to Upton Park. The Wales captain agreed a five-year deal with the Hammers once it was made clear he had no future at Anfield following the arrival of Spain international Fernando Torres.

Bellamy, 28 later this week, only spent one season at Liverpool and has led a nomadic existence in recent years, with short spells at Newcastle, Celtic and Blackburn.

But he is ready to lay roots in east London and is convinced the Hammers will be competing among the elite before too long.

Bellamy said: "I want to play in Europe, it's important to me, and I felt that same drive and ambition here at West Ham.

"Obviously it would be naive of me to say we are going to qualify for the Champions League next season but that's one thing we are really going to be pushing for here in the future.

"The club is looking to strengthen what is already a very good squad, and West Ham are renowned for their open and attacking football, so everything is perfect for me.

"I had a great experience at Liverpool and I believe West Ham will benefit this year because I know I am a better player for it.

"I've signed a five-year contract here and I will be here for the long term. I've moved around a bit in recent years. Now I want to settle.

"I'm 28 later this week and hopefully approaching the prime years of my career. I believe West Ham are going to see the best of me."

icWales

JULY-12

Mohamed and Murtagh shine against Blackburn

Mohamed came on as a second half sub against Rovers' strongest side, as they prepare for their Intertoto Cup match against either Vetra or Legia Warsaw in under a fortnight. Mark Hughes named Internationals Robbie Savage, Benni McCarthy, Ryan Nelsen, David Bentley, Tugay and Morten Gamst Pedersen, to name but a few, but the ex-Old Gold man, took just seven minutes to open his account as he received a pass from co-striker Chris Simms and he then rounded Brad Friedel to slot home, despite Stephane Henchoz's attempt to clear from the line.

The club's website said that Mohamed "was looking very lively and causing some real panic in the visitors defence."
Former TNS man, Steve Evans also played in the Second Half and ex-Rhyl man, Connal Murtagh also played in the Second Half, making it a trio of former Welsh Premier stars in the Wrexham side. A Wrexham club official said that Mohamed looked very good, whilst Murtagh was the Man of the Match after an outstanding 45 minutes.

Daily Post

JULY-12

Red's Intertoto Cup Conquerors to face Blackburn

UEFA.com reports that the UEFA Control and Disciplinary Body met today to discuss disturbances involving Polish supporters at last Sunday's second round first-leg match at V�tra in Vilnius. With the half-time score at 2-0 in the home team's favour, Legia fans fired "a considerable number" of missiles on to the pitch and, as well as causing damage to the stadium infrastructure, engaged in "ugly and shocking" scenes with police. This continued for 30 minutes and led UEFA match officials to abandon the contest.

As well as their expulsion from this European season and one future campaign should they qualify within the next five years, Legia have been ordered to contact Vetra within ten days with regard to compensation for the damage caused. The match, played on 8 July, has been awarded as a 3-0 win to Vetra by default. The Lithuanian club will progress automatically to the third round, where they will take on Mark Hughes's Rovers.

Evening Post

JULY-12

Wrexham put McEvilly up for sale

McEvilly, who saw a move to Bradford fall through last summer after failing a medical, has been told he does not feature in the club's future plans.

The 25-year-old has a year left on his contract after signed a new two-year deal with Wrexham last season.

"Lee came to see me about the coming season and I told him I could not guarantee anyone a place in the side," said Wrexham manager Brian Carey.

"As everyone can see we have a number of players competing for places, especially up front, which is something I want.

"I told Lee he was not directly in my plans at the moment and, while I understand his desire to be playing, then maybe the best course of action for both parties was to see if any other clubs might be interested in taking him on.

"I'm sure that will be the case, but if not, then he is free to fight for his place here."

McEvilly played 30 times for Wrexham last season after returning from a broken foot in November, scoring eight goals.

BBC

JULY-12

Powell retains six more Citizens

The Bangor faithful will be delighted that some of their favourites, who did so well for the club in the second half of last season have all signed on the dotted line for the forthcoming campaign.

Defenders Lee Webber, Martin Beattie, Peter Hoy and Steve Wynne as well as midfielder Kieran Killackey and frontman Ashley Stott have all committed themselves to the Farrar Road club for the next twelve months.

The Citizens are preparing for their first pre-season friendly at Mynydd Isa next Tuesday and boss Powell, is just waiting for one more of last year's squad to agree terms.

"I'm just waiting to talk to Mark Smyth when he comes back off holiday this week," said Powell.

"Steve Bleasdale brought some good players into the club during his stay, and I'm glad to say that they are staying. I've also brought a couple of others in and have other irons currently in the fire."

The Bangor boss also added that the squad were looking sharp in training and were looking forward to the start of the new season.

Others already committed to Bangor for the forthcoming season are former Nomads Paul Smith and Marc Limbert, ex-Porthmadog duo Les Davies and Gareth Parry whilst Paul O'Neill, Sion Edwards and Mel McGuinness have all been retained. Powell expects to add other players to the squad in the near future.

Welshpremier.com

JULY-12

Savage reveals Wrexham ambition

"Hopefully one day I'll play for Wrexham and maybe even be the manager," Savage told BBC Sport after playing in Tuesday's friendly at the Racecourse.

"I used to stand in the Kop watching them every home game. I love the club.

"I was delighted when they stayed up last season and I still look for their results every week. Hopefully they can get more money in and go higher."

"It was probably the most nervous I've ever been before a match," said Wrexham-born Savage.

"I winced a few times in some of the tackles but the leg was fine. It was great to be back, it's been a long and hard six months.

"There have been a lot of downs and not many ups, but this match was my reward for a lot of hard work I've put in.

"It was a bad break - the surgeon told me it was one of the worst I could have had. It was shattered in several places and was a compound fracture.

"But it just shows that a lot of determination and hard to get back has paid off. I'm delighted."

BBC

JULY-12

Dodd's gives us options says Beadle

Dodds, 27, signed on the dotted line at the weekend and moves from Carmarthen Town, where his impressive displays since switching to the heart of the defence attracted the attention of the Exiles.

The centre back joins fellow signings Lee John, Lee Jarman, James Simpson and Lee Fowler to Spytty Park, and Beadle is poised to seal a sixth deal.

The boss is on the brink of securing a permanent deal for a goalkeeper, a problem position following the unfortunate hip injury to Mark Ovendale, which should be completed in the next 24 hours.

But for now it is the acquisition of versatile Dodds that has Beadle excited as he prepares his charges for a promotion bid.

Beadle said: "Mark is at a good age and brings with him plenty of experience having played in Europe. What brought him to our attention is his pace and strength and we feel that he will be a great addition to the squad.

"And a boost for us is that Mark can also play up front, he had rave reviews playing at the back over the last year or so but it is an option for us to put him at centre forward.

South Wales Argus

JULY-11

Sunderland agree £5m Chopra deal

Sunderland have agreed a £5m deal for Cardiff City striker Michael Chopra.

The 23-year-old former Newcastle star scored 22 goals for Cardiff in the Championship last season and now looks set to return to the north-east.

Cardiff boss Dave Jones told the South Wales Echo: "I am sorry to see him go, everybody in the camp is. But there is a price for every player."

Reports said Chopra had left Cardiff's training camp in Portugal, although the club insisted he is still there.

Cardiff boss Jones added: "The money could go on to make us stronger.

"This is good business for us and after all, we are in a business. And for Michael it means Premiership football - we cannot stop him. We wish him all the best with Sunderland."

Cardiff chairman Peter Ridsdale revealed that they had turned down an unnamed offer from an unnamed club.

But Keane has met the asking price for Chopra, who joined Cardiff for less than £500,000 in June 2006, after missing out on David Nugent, who is joining Portsmouth.

Keane agreed a £6m deal with Preston for Nugent, and Chopra's goal record compared favourably to the England striker's last season.

Chopra has a release clause in his contract allowing him to speak to any club offering £5m - now the Geordie must weigh up whether to move back to the Premiership with the old enemy.

BBC

JULY-11

TNS come unstuck against Gretna

Davie Irons side started well although the visitors should have taken the lead inside 10 minutes but Jamie Wood failed to capitalise on a mistake by Danny Grainger.

Gretna recovered from the early scare and the lively Brendan McGill saw a shot saved after good link-up play with Colin McMenamin.

New signing Fabian Yantorno tested Harrison in the TNS goal with a free-kick from the edge of the box closely followed up with powerful drive from a tight angle.

And the impressive Uruguayan was involved in the build-up as Gretna took the lead on 31 minutes, slipping a delightful ball through to Colin McMenamin, who fired the ball into the net from six-yards.

The Black and Whites continued to press and Yantorno forced a good save from Harrison after good work from Davie Graham.

Despite five changes at the break, Gretna continued to dominate proceedings and doubled their lead on 61 minutes when James Grady pounced on a defensive mistake and squared the ball to the on-rushing Davie Graham who stroked home.

Substitute Fraser McLaren should have made it three late on but sliced his shot wide after a trademark run down the left by Graham.

www.gretnafootballclub.co.uk

JULY-11

Sinclair wings his way to Cardiff

The 34-year-old was released by Manchester City at the end of last season after spending four injury-hit seasons with the Premiership club.

Sinclair, who was also wanted by Stoke City, passed a medical on Tuesday and immediately flew to Portugal to join Cardiff's pre-season tour.

"Trevor will add value and depth to the team," said City chief Peter Ridsdale.

BBC

JULY-11

Bangor boss is well prepared

They join Paul Smith, Paul O'Neill, Les Davies, Sion Edwards, Marc Limbert, Mel McGuinness and Gareth Parry, and Powell expects to add other players to the squad in the near future.

Tony Coates

JULY-11

Koumas charmed by Hutchings vision

JASON Koumas took an instant liking to new Wigan manager Chris Hutchings and sealed a four-year deal with little hesitation.

The 27-year-old Wales playmaker will have first training session tomorrow after completing his £5.3million move from West Brom.

Koumas believes at his age he needs to be playing in the Premier League, not the Coca-Cola Championship so was a willing convert to the Hutchings cause.

Koumas said: “After our first meeting I knew he was the man I wanted to play for.

“He has his own ideas and I was impressed with how he plans to set up his team.

“It is a great challenge being back in the Premiership.

“When you get to my age you want to test yourself against the better players and teams.

“I am confident in my own ability and have nothing to prove. I am looking forward to showing what I can do.

“Wherever I have been settled and wherever I have played games I have done well.”

The transfer fee includes a guaranteed payment of £4.6million with a further £500,000 due on appearances.

Albion would also receive another £200,000 if Wigan either retain their top-flight status next term or get back up while Koumas remains their player.

icWales

JULY-10

Martinez: No rush for one Moore signing

Evening Post

JULY-11

Another Jones boy joins Cefni

Tony Coates

JULY-11

City's Parry aims to fly high

CARDIFF CITY wide-man Paul Parry has admitted he was almost relieved to be dropped from John Toshack’s Wales squad earlier this year as it gave him the chance to “sort his head out”.

He insists he now wants to concentrate on his club form as he prepares to face a challenge from new Bluebirds signing Trevor Sinclair.

The Newport-born 26-year-old has 11 caps for his country and one international goal, but after being a regular member of the Welsh squad he found himself out in the cold for the recent friendly with New Zealand and the Euro 2008 qualifier against the Czech Republic.

Parry, who is now in Portugal for a pre-season training camp with the Bluebirds, played an integral part in Cardiff’s brilliant start to last season, but like the rest of the team lost his way late on.

icWales

JULY-11

Dragon Williams will learn from Pennant

WREXHAM defender Mike Williams believes his weekend duel with Jermaine Pennant is a valuable lesson that will stand him in good stead in the years to come.

The Dragons youngster was given a torrid 45 minutes by Liverpool’s prospective England international as he set up the Premiership side’s three first-half goals during Saturday’s friendly at the Racecourse.

But Williams, who established himself in Wrexham’s senior squad last season, was able to crack a joke at his own expense during a break from training yesterday.

“I saw a lot of the back of his shirt because he was running away from me so often,” he said. “When I saw his name on the team sheet I had a feeling I would be in for a tough afternoon and in that, at least, I was not disappointed.”

Chastening experience though it was, the Wales under-21 full-back added: “If I want to push on in my career I’m going to come up against players of that calibre more often, so in that respect I’ve learned something and it’s reminded me that I’ve still got some way to go.”

Overall, though, Williams was pleased with the run-out, pointing out that the match was more about helping manager Brian Carey assess his player’s fitness than the eventual result.

“The gaffer had told us he wanted to give everyone 45 minutes in a game situation, which is very different from working in training,” he said. “It was also an opportunity to try out a few different ideas in terms of system and formation, even though it’s very early days.

Daily Post

JULY-11

West Ham seal £7.5m Bellamy deal

The 27-year-old Wales captain has signed a five-year contract after just one season at Anfield.

"I wanted to make sure that, if I left Liverpool, it would be to a club that is going to be pushing for Europe," Bellamy told the West Ham website.

"I want to play in Europe, it's important to me, and I felt that same drive and ambition here at West Ham."

Bellamy's move was delayed because of a private contractual dispute with Liverpool, which has since been resolved.

There seemed to be little doubt that he would be shown the exit door this summer after Liverpool boss Rafael Benitez dropped at hint at the unveiling of Torres.

BBC

JULY-10

Lido's Steve Perry signs for Neath

ANDREW Dyer, manager of Welsh Premier new boys Neath Athletic has signed Afan Lido centre back Steve Perry, Perry is joined at Neath by former Swansea midfielder David D'Auria who has decided to come out of retirement.

Now 37 years of age, D'Auria who amassed almost 250 appearances in the football league announced he was retiring from the game, but has answered Dyers call. 

Also signed by Neath is Bryntirion defender Sean Cronin, Cronin was viewed as one of the welsh leagues top defenders.

Tony

JULY-10

Chopra: I'll hit 30 goals this season

BLUEBIRDS first-choice striker Michael Chopra today set himself the target of 30 goals next season for Cardiff City.

And in another pledge, the Bluebirds striker vowed to cut out the silly sendings off that blighted the end of his 2006-7 campaign.
He insisted he will be “more professional” in future.
“I’ve set myself a target of 30 goals this season,” said Chopra, who has been the subject of a £3m bid from another Championship club.
“Last season I could have hit that mark, but I went through that patch of one goal in 14 games. If I’d scored five or six in that period, I think I’d have hit 30.
“I know I felt the Championship was too easy at times – hopefully it’ll be the same this season and I can continue scoring goals.
“I also felt I let a lot of people down with the way I was reacting to referees.
“This year you’ll see a totally different Michael Chopra on the pitch – I’ll be a lot more professional.
“It’s mainly down to experience – as you get older, you learn more.”

Chopra, who scored both goals in City’s 2-0 win at Merthyr on Saturday, has been told of the bid for him which did not come from Watford as has been reported over the weekend.
“Michael has been informed, and agrees with our stance of rejecting it out of hand,” said chairman Peter Ridsdale.
It’s understood the Bluebirds will not consider any offer for Chopra below £5m.

South Wales Echo

JULY-10

Swans set to unveil striker Duffy

Swansea City are set to announce the signing of Hull City striker Darryl Duffy on Tuesday morning.

The 23-year-old has passed a medical at Swansea and has agreed personal terms .

Both clubs agreed a fee last week of £200,000, which could rise to £300,000 depending on Swansea's results.

Duffy, who had a year left on his Hull deal, scored five goals in five starts in a short loan period at the Liberty Stadium last season.  

He will become the third striker to move to Swansea this summer, joining Trinidad & Tobago's Jason Scotland and Spain's Guillem Bauza Mayol.

Lee Trundle is the only other senior striker at the club following Pawel Abbott's recent £100,000 move to Darlington.

Former Rangers and Scotland Under-21 player Duffy had also been linked with a move to Scottish Premier League sides Hearts and Hibernian, while Hartlepool United were also thought to be keen.

BBC

JULY-10

Baggies accept Wigan's Koumas bid

The Baggies turned down previous offers from Birmingham and Fulham, who offered cash plus players for the 27-year-old.

West Brom chairman Jeremy Peace said: "We have said all along we will only consider selling players like Jason if we receive head-turning offers.

"The deal must also be in the club's best interests and we feel this offer mirrors those criteria."

There had been speculation about Koumas' future ever since West Brom lost the Championship play-off final to Derby in May.

BBC

JULY-10

Swans sign Anderson from Liverpool

Swansea City have completed the signing of Paul Anderson on a season-long loan from Liverpool.The highly-rated winger agreed the move yesterday and is now expected to join the rest of Roberto Martinez's squad on a pre-season training trip to Sweden.

Anderson, who turns 19 later this month, is another piece in the Martinez jigsaw.

He provides the genuine pace the Swansea boss has been looking for, and heads to Wales with a fine reputation.

The Reds paid an initial £200,000 for Anderson when he signed from Hull last year and he could eventually cost them as much as £1.5million depending on appearances.

"We have an agreement with Swansea and it's a good move for Paul," said Liverpool manager Rafael Benitez.

"I've talked about the number of players we have here and it's difficult for them all to play.

"By going to Swansea Paul will get good experience."

Evening Post

JULY-10

Goals what I’m here for says Eifion

NEW Wrexham striker Eifion Williams marked his Dragons debut with two goals on Saturday and said he was looking to score a few more when the League Two campaign gets under way next month.

Bangor-born Williams, a summer signing from Hartlepool United, made an immediate impact during his 45-minute outing against a youthful Liverpool line-up.

The icing on the cake for Wrexham was the financial reward from an 11,000-plus attendance, money which will virtually fund the club’s youth development programme for the next 12 months.

A modest Williams played down his contribution saying: “It was a good performance from the lads and it was a tough workout, but that’s what we needed for the first game of the season.

“Obviously I’ve been brought in to score goals and hopefully that will go a long way towards suggesting what I can do throughout the season.”

“It’s nice to be back in North Wales and I’m looking to score a few goals this season. When I spoke to Brian I was happy with what I heard and the facilities here were impressive as well.

“There were a few clubs interested in me, but once I had spoken to Brian it was an easy decision to make.”

One of five close-season signings, Williams said the club’s brush with relegation last season had been forgotten and he added: “We have signed a few players and hopefully we can push on. We have got last season out of our system and we are looking to push on now

“I don’t set targets for myself but I’m happy to score goals and if I get a few I’ll be happy with that. Things aren’t going to happen overnight but it’s looking good.”

Daily Post

JULY-10

Bluebirds swoop for Trevor Sinclair

CARDIFF City are set to sign former England international Trevor Sinclair.

It’s understood the winger has agreed a one-year contract with the Bluebirds and will put pen to paper as soon as a medical is completed.

Sinclair, 34, has spent most of his career in the Premiership and impressed at the 2002 World Cup.

He is currently a free agent having left Manchester City at the end of last season.

Sinclair offers all the reliability of a proven top-level performer.

He has 12 England caps to his name and 539 career league appearances.

His former clubs are Blackpool, QPR, West Ham and Manchester City.

Sinclair won BBC Match of the Day’s goal of the season in 1997 with an overhead kick while playing for QPR.

IcWales

JULY-10

Alexander ready to sign for Ipswich

NEIL Alexander is set for a move to Cardiff City’s Championship rivals Ipswich Town.

The 29-year-old goalkeeper is understood to have agreed a deal with the Suffolk club after leaving Ninian Park earlier this summer.

Tractor Boys boss Jim Magilton has moved for the Scottish international after losing out on England stopper Richard Wright – just as the Bluebirds did.

After signing from Livingston in May 2001 for £200,000, Alexander made almost 250 appearances in a Cardiff shirt and was the club’s longest-serving player.

He had been considering his options since contract negotiations with City broke down in March.

Cardiff boss Dave Jones secured the services of former Aston Villa keeper Michael Oakes last week, but is still keen for a young stopper to join Oakes and David Forde.

With Alexander’s arrival at Portman Road, Ipswich’s Welsh international Lewis Price could now fit the bill with Magilton looking to offload the 22-year-old.

IcWales

JULY-9

Maesteg's future in the balance

Maesteg Park face an unsure future it emerged soon after the Welsh Football League annual general meeting broke up. The first division club, who hosted the meeting, dropped the bombshell in the wake of secretary Ken Tucker informing the meeting that the league would next winter revert back to 54 clubs.

But the Old Parish side now find themselves in deep trouble, having lost their chairman and backer Phil Davies to Port Talbot Town. while Andrew Rickard stood down as manager at the end of last season.

That has left David Griffiths, who has served as club secretary since 1965, backed by wife and treasurer Dawn and a five-strong committee including his son Neil.

Fixture lists were handed out at the meeting, leaving Maesteg with a month to find a solution ahead of their opening game at newly promoted Caldicot on August 11.

Since being relegated from the old League of Wales back in 1995, Maesteg have subsequently always managed top-10 finishes in the first division.

The club is also debt free, making the slide towards closure even more surprising.

''It is now down to the players and business community, and whether people really want Welsh League division one football in the valley,'' said club committeeman Neil Griffiths.

''We have made strenuous efforts to appoint both a manager and backer without success.

''It has left us in a desperate situation, and we now have around a month to a find a solution to a problem that is providing me with plenty of sleepless nights.'''

If Maesteg, founded in 1945, should fold that would form the end of the line for football at Tudor Park, as there is no intention to drop down to the feeder leagues.

It would form another huge blow for football in the area, following the relegation of Caerau in 2003, and the withdrawal of Gwynfi United from the league last Christmas.

''The Llynfi Valley possesses plenty of parks grade teams, but it is ironic that the team at the top of the pyramid is struggling,'' continued Griffiths.

''Hopefully, someone will come in and save the club at the 11th hour, but at the moment things aren't looking good.

''But we will keep on trying, as it is not our intention to allow 62 years of football history to end without a fight.''

Evening Post

JULY-9

Redrow could fund Fowler move

REDROW Homes has given Cardiff City more ammunition in their bid for Robbie Fowler by making a major cash injection.

The Echo understands the construction firm, which used to be City’s shirt sponsors and will build on Ninian Park when the club moves to its new stadium, has pumped in a sizeable sum that could be used to help finance any deal for the former Liverpool striker.

City chairman Peter Ridsdale met Fowler’s agent George Scott at the weekend to try to secure the transfer.

It’s thought a package of around £8-9,000 a week has been offered to the player with significant incentives for promotion and goals scored.

Fowler is understood to be seriously tempted by a move to Ninian Park and against any deal involving a switch to America or Australia.

Wages have been mooted as the stumbling block, but the chance to play regular first-team football at the age of 32 could well swing it in City’s favour, even though manager Dave Jones will offer no guarantees.

There are also suggestions Fowler could be quite prepared to take a pay cut.

South Wales Echo

JULY-9

Welsh Premier to host European Leagues

The Principality Building Society Welsh Premier Football League is due to host the General Assembly of the European Football Leagues Association in Cardiff on the 26^th July. The event will be held at the St. David’s Hotel and Spa in Cardiff Bay and representatives of all of the major European Football Leagues will be in attendance.

On the Agenda for the meeting, is the admission of the Principality Welsh Premier League and five other European Leagues as Members to the increasingly influential Association. In addition to this, the EPFL’s Global Strategy Plan for 2007/08 will be considered by Members. The General Assembly will be followed by a Press Conference, which will take place in the St. David’s Hotel at approximately 5.00pm.

In welcoming the news Principality Welsh Premier League Secretary John Deakin said, “I am absolutely delighted that the EPFL has asked us to host this prestigious event and to be granted Membership of the Association will be a major boost for our League. It will enable the Principality Welsh Premier to play a part in a prestigious organisation that is proving to be of great significance in European club football. I have been fortunate enough to attend previous events, organised by the EPFL and the knowledge that I am gaining from officials of the major European Leagues is proving to be invaluable and can only benefit the development of the Welsh Premier.”

FAW

JULY-9

Rhyl face battle with Wrexham for player

NLD

JULY-9

A menace for Swans Denis

Dennis Lawrence was one of three Swansea City stars left behind today as Roberto Martinez's men jetted out to Sweden. Swansea headed to Scandinavia for some high altitude pre-season training.

But Lawrence misses the trip after pulling a hamstring in training last week, while Darren Way and Owain Tudur Jones also stay at home because of their long-term injury problems.

Central defender Lawrence is likely to be sidelined for around a fortnight, so should be fit by the time Swansea play four friendlies on their tour of Holland later this month.

Evening Post

JULY-9

Caersws manager Barton raids former club

NLD

JULY-9

A double Brace for Carmarthen

They are strikers Tim Hick and Richie Adams, plus defender Richard Hughes and keeper Mark Poole.

Tim Hicks looks to be drafted in to replace Kaid Mohamed who looks likely to be on the books of Wrexham next season, the other 3 recruited are all from the lower leagues, Ritchie Adams and Richard Hughes were both playing Pembrokeshire league soccer last season, while Poole was keeper with welsh league side Pontypridd.

Tony

JULY-9

Purse in Fowler plea

CARDIFF CITY captain Darren Purse has warned the top brass at Ninian Park not to plunge the club into financial meltdown just for the sake of signing Robbie Fowler.

The Bluebirds have been linked with a move for the former Liverpool and England striker in a deal which would blow City’s pay structure out of the water.

There has even been talk of Cardiff seeking sponsorship to cover the deal.

But Purse, who has just signed a new contract to keep him with the Bluebirds for another two years, has questioned the wisdom of such a move.

“Robbie Fowler would be a great signing, but it would cost the club quite a few quid to do it,” said the 30-year-old defender.

“It’s like the Jason Koumas thing last year. He would have been good as well, but you can’t put the club in jeopardy just to sign one player. You’ve got to look at the bigger picture.

“The club is in a settled state with the stadium coming, so is it worth going and putting the club into jeopardy just to sign one player? I don’t think so.”

IcWales

JULY-9

Llanelli's Euro Conquerors overcome Legia

The Lithuanian side had made a superb start with Brazilian striker Lima Severino heading his side in front after eight minutes. Severion scored the visitors opener last week at Richmond Park and continued his good goalscoring form.

The hosts, must have been harbouring thoughts of a return to the UK for a third-round tie against Blackburn Rovers when Macedonian midfielder Dejan Milo'evski doubled their advantage from ten metres just before the interval. The subsequent disturbance brought the match to a premature end.

UEFA's Disciplinary Committee will now meet to decide the outcome of the game, but it is likely that the Poles will be thrown out of the competition and consequently, the Lithuaninan's will be back in the UK in a fortnight to battle it out with Mark Hughes' side for a place in the UEFA Cup 2nd Qualifying Round.

Welshpremier.com

JULY-9

Chopra want's to stay at Cardiff

FANS favorite Michael Chopra last night insisted he wanted to remain with Cardiff City and declared he would relish the prospect of teaming up with Robbie Fowler in a dream goal partnership.
But Chopra explained the ball about his future was very much in the court of Bluebirds boss Dave Jones.
Chopra spoke for the first time about fresh speculation linking him with a summer move away from Ninian Park, possibly to make way for Fowler.
Watford have been heavily linked with a bid for the 23-year-old who finished second top scorer in the Championship last season.
But Chopra maintained that he signed a recent extension to his contract because he was happy with the Bluebirds.
And, far from going, he has set himself a target of 30 goals for the new 2007-08 campaign ... with, or without, Fowler’s assistance.
“There is talk of me leaving Cardiff, but it’s up to the manager here. It’s about what his plans are, Chopra, after scoring the goals in City’s 2-0 pre-season friendly win at Merthyr on Saturday.
“I wouldn’t have signed a new contract if I didn’t want to be at Cardiff next season. I signed a year’s extension. I like the place and, hopefully, I will be here next season.
“I’m hoping to score 30 goals for the club next season. Personally, I believe I can reach that target.
“While I’m still at Cardiff City, I will always give 100 per cent. Even in a friendly I will always wear my heart on my sleeve and try to get goals for this club, because that’s my job and that’s what I get paid to do 
Of Fowler, he said, “The idea of him coming here excites me a lot.
Bluebirds skipper Darren Purse, who himself inked a new deal at Ninian Park over the weekend, was more forthright, insisted the club had to hold onto Chopra if they were to make a real Premiership promotion challenge in the coming months.
“Whenever anyone gets 20 or more goals in a season, there is always going to be transfer talk, Purse.
“We had it before here with Cameron Jerome and the club accepted I hope the club aren’t going to do that this time, because if we’ve got any aspirations of getting out of this division, we’ve got to keep out best players.
“And Chops is definitely one of them.

Icwales

JULY-8

Sydney may foil Cardiff’s Fowler bid

CARDIFF’S hopes of luring Robbie Fowler to Ninian Park could be heading Down Under.

City chairman Peter Ridsdale has been busy rounding up local money men to try and stump up the kind of financial deal that might tempt the former England striker.

But the Bluebirds have several rivals for the signature of the 32 year old, including Aussie outfit Sydney FC.

The A-League side are reported to be ready to begin advanced talks with free-agent Fowler.

Ridsdale last night stuck by his guns not to comment on Cardiff’s interest, despite Fowler’s advisor George Scott encouraging the club to arrange formal talks.

But Bluebirds boss Dave Jones has admitted Fowler is the calibre of player he is chasing as he looks to add at least two more new names to his City squad.

“If Robbie was available and we could get anywhere near him and afford him, then of course he’d be a player that everybody would want. So we’ll just have to wait and see what happens.”

Fowler is regarded as one of the richest-ever footballers and his personal wealth – thanks to shrewd property investment – has been estimated at as much as £28m. It would need him to take a massive wage reduction for Cardiff to get their man and there would certainly be no guarantees of a starting place under Jones.

Icwales

JULY-8

Carmarthen beat the Bluebirds

Carmarthen Town's pre-UEFA Cup warm up matches got off to the best possible start on a sunny Saturday afternoon in Carmarthen. New Old Gold boss Deryn Brace will be delighted with the result, which should install his side with some confidence as they prepare for their difficult UEFA Cup fixture with Brann in less than two weeks.

Without the influential Kaid Mohamed (trial with Wrexham) and Mark Dodd's (Newport County) who both look to have played their last game for the club, Brace named new signings Gareth Wharton and Nicky Palmer in his starting eleven, whilst Aberystwyth born youngster Stefan Hughes, a former Wales Under 18 defender, was given a chance to impress in the back four.

The Cardiff side meanwhile featured a mixture of youth and first team players in the starting line up, but included Northern Ireland International, Tony Capaldi at left back, Welsh Internationals Joe Ledley and Chris Gunter as well as Cypriot International Costas Charalambides on the right of midfield, whilst new-signings Steve MacLean started up front and former Rangers skipper, Gavin Rae played in central midfield.

The Cypriot demonstrated some smart skill early on and he created a chance for MacLean to force the impressive Carmarthen 'keeper Neil Thomas into a smart save. Carmarthen opened the scoring though as Nathan Cotterrall got the better of Everton-target Gunter to cross the ball into the six yard box, as diminutive midfielder Sacha Walters headed home well past youngster Josh Herring in the City goal.

The Bluebirds forced the rest of the half though and created a number of chances with former Newport County striker Matt Green keeping Thomas busy in the home goal, but they couldn't beat last season's Supporters Player of the Year. Fellow striker Steve MacLean also came close, but his shot was once again saved by Thomas as the Old Gold took a one-goal lead in at Half Time

The opening quarter of an hour of the second half saw City continue to create chances, but they couldn't draw level. Then, on the hour, Town extended their lead in spectacular fashion after Glenn Loovens' back pass was picked-up by young 'keeper Herring. Cardiff born Paul Fowler took the responsibility and from the edge of the box he smashed his central free kick into the back of the net.

The impressive MacLean, formerly of Sheffield Wednesday, nearly brought the Bluebirds back in touch with a neat turn and finish, but Town's reserve 'keeper Nicky Poole, who signed this week from Pontypridd Town, continued the excellent work of Thomas, and he palmed the shot over for a corner when the ball looked destined for the top right hand corner.

Brace, who watched the whole game from the sideline would have been delighted with the clean sheet, the performance and the victory, but he will know that the visit of Bergen will prove even more of a test when they come to Wales for the match on Thursday 19th July at Richmond Park.

Carmarthen Town: N.Thomas (Poole), Hughes (Hancock), Smothers, Palmer, Wharton, C.Thomas, D.Thomas (Davies), Ramasut, Fowler, Walters (Lancey), Cotterrall (Adams)

Cardiff City: Herring, Gunter, Capaldi (Bloom), Rae, Archeampong, Loovens, Charalambides, Blake (Upcott), MacLean, Green (Kelleher), Ledley (Brown).
Subs not used: Margetson, Webbe, Mason, Wade.

Referee: Mr. Dean John

Attendance: 420

Welshpremier.com

JULY-8

Kiwi Michael looks All White for Rhyl

The Lilywhites annihilated their visitors from Surrey with seven goals in a pre-season friendly at Rhyl on Saturday afternoon as they build-up to their UEFA Cup Qualifying matches against Finland's FK Haka.

Mark Connolly continued his excellent form from last season to score Rhyl's first goal when his free kick was curled into the top corner from the right hand side of the penalty area. The home side's advantage was doubled when new signing Danny Desormeaux, formerly of Newtown and NEWI Cefn Druids scored the second with a 20-yard piledriver that the 'keeper should have got to. Fellow new signing Phil Molyneux also marked his first appearance for John Hulse's side with a goal as the floodgates opened.

Italian trialist Gianluca Grazioli, who came on at Half-Time on the wing, also got on the score sheet but New Zealander Michael White stole the show as he more than impressed in his first game, bagging a second half hat-trick. His first was an absolute cracker, when he won the ball on the edge of the penalty area and after beating a would-be defender he fired into the top right corner.

Rhyl could have had double figures as some chances were wasted and the visiting goalkeeper saved two penalties from Connolly and another new boy, Jimmy Kelly. The latter, a 34-year old midfielder, was also making his first appearance for Rhyl following his switch from Droylesden.

It was a worthwhile run-out for Hulse's side, as it gave the Rhyl boss an opportunity to see some of the trialists and new signings. Rhyl' next UEFA Cup warm-up match is on Tuesday night, when they travel to Cymru Alliance outfit, Mynydd Isa.

Rhyl: